Wiltshire Council scheme rehomes first Ukrainian family
Almost 1500 Ukrainians now live in Wiltshire
The first Ukrainian family has been rehomed under a Wiltshire Council scheme.
The council bought 24 properties across the county for families from the war-torn country.
The Yildirim family are the first to move into their new home, and also have Ukrainian neighbours who have moved under the same scheme.
Leader of Wiltshire Council, Cllr Richard Clewer, said: “Wiltshire has led the way in welcoming people from Ukraine and making them feel at home. We are grateful to our many hosts, who continue to provide space and a warm welcome to Ukrainian guests.
“These homes are for the families who are in desperate need. We are no doubt one of the first councils in the country to provide homes in this way.”
The council will continue supporting Ukrainian guests in finding their own housing and moving on from their host families.
Wiltshire has welcomed almost 1500 guests from Ukraine and is one of the top authorities in the country for taking in Ukrainian nationals following the Russian invasion.
Yuksel Yildirim said: “We came over to the UK and first went to stay with family. Our children went to school and alongside my wife I went to language school and then later I found employment.
“We are really happy with our current accommodation, and this is the first time we have called a house our home. I want to thank Wiltshire Council for all the help and support. I hope they will continue their support for many more people in the same situation as us.”