I am immensely proud of the way West Oxfordshire has stood in solidarity with Ukrainians affected by Putin's barbaric invasion of their homeland. It has been incredible to see the number of Ukrainian flags flying across West Oxfordshire from our village halls, churches and people's homes.
I have been deeply moved by the extraordinary generosity shown by our community in the many people who have come forward to host a refugee family forced to flee the war in Ukraine. Your kindness and compassion is greatly appreciated by all of us in West Oxfordshire.
I am working to support hosts however I can, and want to ensure that your guests can transition to life in the UK as smoothly as possible. As I know from my own mailbag, newly arrived Ukrainian refugees and their sponsors are keen to learn more about the support that is available to them here in West Oxfordshire.
I therefore thought that it would be a good idea to get local organisations, charities and community groups together under one roof to provide direct information about the support they are able to offer. Organisations ranging from the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, the Job Centre, and local language schools will be in attendance with a stall to explain how they can support new arrivals.
I am inviting all sponsors and their guests in West Oxfordshire to the event which is taking place at the Corn Exchange in Witney on Friday, 10th June between 11:00-14:00. I hope that this will be a positive opportunity for newly arrived Ukrainians to connect with one another, helping them to build bonds and feel warmly welcomed in their new community. It will also be an opportunity for hosts to meet with other sponsors and learn more about the wide range of support which is available here in West Oxfordshire.
A translator will be in attendance to help as required, and refreshments will also be provided.
It is a drop-in event so people are free to arrive at any time between 11:00-14:00, but I do ask that any attendees register in advance here.
Please feel free to contact me at robert@robertcourts.co.uk if you have any questions.
Thank you again and I look forward to meeting hosts and their guests in person on 10th June!
Robert Courts MP
