Ukrainian mum in East Kilbride gets ready for first Christmas in Scotland

Sofiia Buhaichuk and her 3-year-old son Aaron fled Ukraine's war with Russia earlier this year.

Author: Callum McQuadePublished 22nd Dec 2022

A mum and her 3-year-old son in East Kilbride are among thousands of Ukrainians preparing to spend their first Christmas away from home.

Sofiia Buhaichuk arrived here with her mum, gran and 3-year-old Aaron but her husband and dad had to stay in Ukraine to fight the war with Russia.

Sofiia and Aaron.

Speaking to Clyde 1, she said: "My husband is a soldier and I am really nervous for him.

"Aaron is always asking for his father and doesn't understand where he is.

"I want to go back home and spend the holidays with my whole family.

"We normally go to church and have dinner together."

Sofiia's mum and gran are living with her in East Kilbride.

However, Sofiia will try to make the most of the festive season with her new friends in Scotland that she has made while taking English classes at college.

She added: "Christmas in Scotland will be a new experience for me as there are some traditions I am still trying to get used to like party hats and candy canes.

"Aaron is enjoying being here as he is getting a visit from Santa at nursery and has been practising for his Christmas concert by singing the same song over and over again."

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