A statement from the Leader of Dorset Council, Cllr Spencer Flower on the crisis in Ukraine:
We are deeply saddened by the tragic events unfolding in Ukraine and are following the situation closely. Dorset Council has a proud history of welcoming new arrivals at times of crisis to offer homes and support so families and individuals can build new lives here.
We are waiting for the Government to further clarify details of its schemes for Ukrainian refugees so we can plan effectively and quickly. We will keep you updated with how you can help with this as soon as we know more.
We understand many people are very concerned about the situation in Ukraine and want to help. At the moment, the best way you can help is the best way to help is by making a cash donation to an organisation such as the British Red Cross or Save the Children who are responding to the humanitarian crisis. These organisations are already working on the ground and can direct support in the quickest and most appropriate ways.
In addition, we are currently participating in a number of refugee resettlement schemes and we do require more private, affordable homes in Weymouth and Dorchester for refugee families.
To register your interest in helping a Ukrainian family in need of accommodation please visit Homes for Ukraine – Homes for Ukraine – Local Sponsorship Scheme for Ukraine (campaign.gov.uk)
Well said and fully behind this statement
This is indeed a dreadful situation
Yours Cllr David Taylor
Reading the Leader’s statement about the tragic events in the Ukraine, what we can all do to help respond to the humanitarian crisis and the Council’s readiness to work with the Government to support refugees reminds me why I am proud to work for Dorset Council.
Will Dorset county Council be involved in housing refugees from Ukraine and if so how do we find out more ?
Please can I offer temporary accommodation to any Ukrainian refugees as and when Dorset Council is asked to provide this type of support?
Is there anyone in Dorset CC who can give a little more clarity on offering accommodation to Ukrainians? For the well being of any Ukrainian family being offered accommodation there needs to be small groups so that, if those people don’t speak English, they can give each other a degree of support by being able to meet up and talk with others who have experienced the same trauma. We’re told that any family offering accommodation would get six months Government support – what happens at the end of that six months if the situation in Ukraine has not been resolved? This could be a financial embarrassment to that family.