We stand with Ukraine

Many residents in the district will no doubt be thinking about what they can do to help in terms of supporting the humanitarian response to this crisis and whilst the Council is not collecting donations directly, we have compiled a list of organisations and appeals that residents might consider supporting.

• Disasters Emergency Committee - Ukraine humanitarian appeal
• The Red Cross has set up the Ukraine Crisis Appeal, which is requesting donations to respond to humanitarian needs through food, water, first aid, medicines, warm clothes and shelter
• UNICEF is especially concerned for the safety and wellbeing of children and has set up a specific fund to protect children in Ukraine
• The UN refugee agency helps refugees fleeing situations of war and has a specific collection for Ukraine.
• The Ukrainian Embassy has set up a special fund to support Ukraine
• Polish Humanitarian Action is supplying hygiene products, food and blankets to those in need on the Ukrainian/Polish border.
• Care International is running an emergency appeal to provide emergency food and water.
• Choose Love are appealing for donations for supporting projects who are providing vital aid and services to those still in and fleeing the country, including: emergency medical care, food, shelter, clothes, legal support, support for the LGBTQIA+ community and mental health support.
• London's Ukrainian Institute also has a round-up of support methods here.
• UN Women is working to ensure that women and girls' rights are upheld during times of peace, and now, in this frightening time of war - Support women in Ukraine - UN Women UK

Government updates:

Support for family members of British nationals in Ukraine, and Ukrainian nationals in Ukraine and the UK.

Temporary visa concessions have been introduced for family members of British nationals who usually live in Ukraine.

More information here or telephone: +44 300 3032785 - select option 1 (0300 3032785 if you're in the UK - select option 1).
Lines are open 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
This is a free phone number, but network charges may still apply.

UK Government Response

The UK and our allies condemn the Russian government's unprovoked and premeditated war against Ukraine.

You can find more information on the Government website here and the materials are translated for Ukrainian and Russian residents.

The Charity Commission and Fundraising Regulator have urged the public to 'give safely' to registered charities helping and supporting those affected by the invasion of Ukraine.

By giving to a registered, regulated charity, the public can have assurance that their funds will be accounted for in line with the charity law framework. Established charities with experience of responding to disasters are usually best placed to reach victims on the ground.

People looking to donate to causes working in Ukraine and neighbouring countries, should make a few simple checks before giving:

• Check the charity's name and registration number at www.gov.uk/checkcharity
• Make sure the charity is genuine before giving any financial information
• Be careful when responding to emails or clicking on links within them
• Contact or find out more online about the charity that you're seeking to donate to or work with to understand how they are spending their funds
• Look out for the Fundraising Badge on charity fundraising materials, this is the logo which shows that a charity has committed to fund raise in line with the Code of Fundraising Practice

For more information:

Government Announcement: Regulators urge safe giving to support Ukraine

Government Statement: Statement on Ukraine Crisis and its implications for charities