Over 1,300 Ukrainian guests welcomed to Wiltshire in a year
444 children have started at local schools
12 months to the day (24th February) since the Russian invasion in Ukraine began, we've been looking back at how Wiltshire has helped.
Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, 1,345 Ukrainian guests have arrived safely in Wiltshire under the Homes for Ukraine scheme and 444 Ukrainian children have started at Wiltshire schools.
The Council’s Family and Community Learning team have also been offering adults ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Language) courses across Wiltshire, which more than 200 learners enrolled to date.
Cllr Richard Clewer, Leader of Wiltshire Council said:
“This is a difficult anniversary to mark as we know the last 12 months have been the hardest for Ukraine families who have left their homes and had to make new lives elsewhere. Last year we welcomed Ukraine guests knowing our residents would step up and provide the welcome they deserve. Wiltshire responded to the situation in Ukraine and so many welcomed the guests into their homes and helped them to settle into the county. Our teams, communities and partners have worked hard to try and ensure that this has been an easier transition with the right level of support for those who have needed our help.
“We are now at a point where some families are moving out of sponsor homes into their own homes and into employment and laying foundations in Wiltshire with the continued support of our teams.
“The Homes for Ukraine scheme relies on the generosity and goodwill of Wiltshire residents, and while some guests are moving on to their own homes, we are still in need of more sponsors. Becoming a host is a big commitment for those involved but makes a massive difference to the Ukrainian people coming into Wiltshire. Anyone who thinks that this is something they might be able to offer, I would encourage people to sign up as potential hosts at Homes for Ukraine: record your interest - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
“On Friday 24 February at 11am, to mark the one-year anniversary, we will take part in the national moment of reflection in all of our council hubs, and we will be flying the Ukrainian flag as a tribute to the courage of the Ukrainian people.”
Around 125 families are now moving into their own private rented accommodation with the Homes for Ukraine team helping to facilitate 53 rematches into new host accommodation.