Chester is getting ready to support Ukrainian refugees

Chris Matheson MP and Cllr Samantha Dixon have set up a refugee support network to work together on Chester’s plans to welcome Ukrainian refugees.

On Wednesday, the first meeting was jointly convened by Chris Matheson MP for Chester and Cllr Samantha Dixon, Leader’s Champion for Ukrainian Refugees at Cheshire West and Chester Council. It brought together key representatives from Cheshire West and Chester Council, local NHS services, local churches and the cathedral, local charities including Share Aid, Chester’s City of Sanctuary group, Cheshire West Voluntary Action and other supporting organisations. Attendees discussed the borough’s plans to welcome refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine.

As of this week, reports suggest that since the beginning of the war, 3.8 million people have fled Ukraine with many coming to seek sanctuary here in the UK.

Last week, Chris met ministers responsible for immigration and Ukrainian refugees to identify initial problems in the current processes and the government’s  response and to point to solutions.

Commenting on the meeting, Chris said:

“It was great to see key players in Chester coming together to discuss how we will support those fleeing the most atrocious circumstances. It was even more encouraging to see how much is already being done by the Council, local churches, charities and others in the community to prepare for people coming to seek refuge here in Chester.

“I have been overwhelmed by the number of people getting in touch to ask how they can help, as well as many telling me that they would like to offer their home for Ukrainian refugees. This outpouring of support highlights the true welcoming spirit of Chester. There will be some who will hold extreme views against Ukrainian refugees coming to the UK – we must stand up to them. Britain has a proud history of extending the hand of friendship and welcoming those most in need. Those who are willing to turn their backs on people fleeing unimaginable horrors are un-British. We must do all we can to help those fleeing the war and the time is now for Chester to show what we are capable of.

“I am pleased that the wheels are already in motion, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside Cheshire West and Chester Council and other stakeholders to ensure Chester is ready to whole-heartedly welcome people from Ukraine who need our help.”

Cllr Samantha Dixon said:

“Chester has long been a place of sanctuary for anyone escaping violence, persecution and hatred, and we should be proud of our past efforts of welcoming refugees and asylum seekers. This welcoming spirit must continue in the wake of the dreadful war in Ukraine.

“The Government’s initial response to the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine was slow, and we are still facing some uncertainties and difficulties regarding the Government’s support schemes. However, Cheshire West and Chester Council along with local organisations and the communities across Chester are working collectively and tirelessly to ensure we stand ready to welcome Ukrainian refugees.

“Today’s meeting highlighted the brilliant work being carried out here in Chester and the range of support that will be available. For example, the donations of goods has been amazing and overwhelming but aid organisations in Poland tell local charity workers that they have enough for the time being. This is why we are currently working with Cheshire West Voluntary Action and others to set up a local donation scheme. For those not able to help financially through donations or by offering their homes, there will be other ways to contribute.  

“I am confident the people of Chester will stand united to help those in need, as they have done so countless times before.”

For more information about the Council’s response, the Homes for Ukraine scheme and how you can help visit: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/ukraine.

Anyone with enquiries can also email the Council’s dedicated address:

refugeesupport@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.

Anyone wanting to donate to help with the humanitarian crisis caused by the war in Ukraine can do so through the Disaster and Emergency Committee:

https://donation.dec.org.uk/ukraine-humanitarian-appeal

Alternatively, people are encouraged to donate to Share who are leading the way with humanitarian aid locally:

https://shareaid.co.uk/collections/project-donations/products/assisting-refugees

For anyone wanting to volunteer to be a sponsor and host refugees coming to the UK, can find more information about the Government’s “Homes for Ukraine” scheme here:

https://www.gov.uk/register-interest-homes-ukraine

The local authority have set up a designated page for all information regarding the conflict in Ukraine:

https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/your-council/policies-and-performance/equality-and-diversity/Ukraine-Conflict.aspx?fbclid=IwAR0PhgfhREa9cj72_C9Ewf48M51iV3HAXCNYhWupqswx4rmKitwM3TbdKCs

Additionally, any queries for Cheshire West and Chester Council regarding the war in Ukraine and the support for Ukrainian refugees should be directed to this email address:

refugeesupport@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk