Walsall’s support for Ukrainian refugees

Thirty two adults and twenty two children have arrived in the Borough having fled their homes because of the war. They have been able to apply for a visa to stay in the UK under the Homes for Ukraine scheme which is being supported by Walsall Council. Under the scheme, UK citizens can host refugees from the Ukraine for a minimum of half a year.

Working with the Refugee and Migrant Centre (RMC) the Council is providing a range of support including benefit and employment maximisation, access to health services, and helping the households integrate into the community.

Councillor Garry Perry, Deputy Leader, Resilient Communities, said:

“The Homes for Ukraine scheme has provided a lifeline for many, and I am proud of our community for welcoming 54 Ukrainian refugees since March.”

“The refugees that have come to Walsall through the scheme have integrated well into the community and are making a positive contribution. The support available from our providers has been helping them to build an active, fulfilling and independent life while they are here. The community benefits from diversity, enabling us to share culture and ideas, so this is a really positive thing for the borough of Walsall as well as for the individuals involved in the scheme. A big thank you to our providers who have been supporting the scheme, particularly to Nash Dom who continue to provide a place of welcome and support to people from across Eastern Europe and beyond including the Ukraine.”

The Homes for Ukraine cohort have integrated well into the Walsall community, with all adults currently accessing welfare benefits or employment. Many have embraced the opportunity to undertake English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) support where required and all eligible children have had school places applied for, with those with younger children receiving information on accessing childcare providers.

A Ukrainian refugee on the scheme said:

“My mother and I came to Walsall via the Homes for Ukraine Scheme. Walsall welcomed us very well and we feel good in Walsall. We want to say a massive thank you to RMC for their support for Ukrainian refugees. My mother has health issues and we get all the support she needs. Thank you.”

A Homes for Ukraine host said:

“As this venture is all so new to me, prior to her arrival, I wondered where I was going to have to start in order to assist with her resettlement, but the scheme took all that worry off my mind.  I couldn’t believe the wide range of services on offer, from helping her to set up her bank account, assisting with the Job Centre, navigating her around town, medical services, sourcing English lessons, the list goes on.

“We are so blessed in our area to have this kind of efficient but loving provision, and I am sure all the hosts as well as the many refugees that frequent the centre from all over the world are very appreciative of the support.”

A number of social events have taken place, enabling refugees to meet with people from their communities and the Council is currently working with Nash Dom to provide a cultural event targeted at the Ukrainian community to share talent and promote culture and integration. Nash Dom also provide many other services for these households, including ESOL classes and a befriending service.

-Ends-