Thank you: Lancashire continues to play its part in helping the people of Ukraine
Residents, volunteers and the many organisations across the county have been thanked for their part in aiding the people of Ukraine, as Lancashire welcomes its 1000th arrival.
Over the past six months, hundreds of individual and families fleeing Ukraine following the invasion of Russia have begun a new life in Lancashire via the Homes for Ukraine scheme.
The scheme is being led by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, and provides the general public with the option to host people from Ukraine for a minimum of six months. Lancashire Refugee Integration Team and Lancashire Resilience Forum coordinating the Lancashire-wide response, which also includes accessing healthcare, welfare and schools.
As of August 12, 2022, 541 sponsors in Lancashire have been matched with 1,342 people via the scheme. So far, 1002 people have arrived in Lancashire.
It comes as the people of Ukraine prepare to celebrate Independence Day of Ukraine on August 24 – six months to the day from Russia's invasion.
Lancashire will stand with Ukraine during this poignant day, with County Hall set to be lit up in yellow and blue in a further show of solidarity.
County Councillor Phillippa Williamson, leader of Lancashire County Council, has reiterated the county council's support to the people of Ukraine, and has given her heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in aiding them during this dark period in their history.
Cllr Williamson said: "From the very outset of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Lancashire has stood firm in its support with our European neighbours.
"Six months on and the message is the same – Lancashire stands ready, willing, and able to play our part in the UK’s response to the horrors taking place in Ukraine.
"Through the kindness of our residents, the UK Government has been able to find homes in our county for more than a thousand individuals who desperately need one.
"For this, on behalf of everyone at the county council, thank you.
"I would also like to thank the many organisations and volunteers who have been working round the clock to make sure our new guests settle into their new lives in Lancashire."
To find out more about the Homes for Ukraine scheme and how else you can help the people of Ukraine, visit: https://www.lancashire.gov.uk/council/ukraine/