In response to the devastating situation in Ukraine, we have been asked by people how they can help.
We are currently assisting groups and organisations across Portsmouth in their efforts to support refugees in the city, including those from the Ukraine. If you would like to support this work you can do so via our Paypal button. Please select ‘Refugee’ from the drop down menu.
The Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) and their local partners are in Ukraine and in neighbouring countries providing food, water, shelter and medical assistance.
You can find out more about these charities, the work they are doing and how to donate below:
- Action Against Hunger
- British Red Cross
- CARE International UK
- International Rescue Committee
- Save the Children
- World Vision
The Home Office website has guidance on UK visa support Ukrainian nationals.
Family visa scheme
The family visa scheme allows applicants to join family members in the UK. As part of this scheme, you sign up to house and support your family member/s during their time in the UK. Under this scheme there is no entitlement to any interim or thank you payment. Your Ukrainian family member/s are able to work and study in the UK and have access to public funds.
If your family members have arrived to stay with you in the UK and you require advice on support that may be available, please email Portsmouth City Council via ukrainesupport@portsmouthcc.gov.uk
Homes for Ukraine Scheme
The Homes for Ukraine Scheme offers a home in the UK to people fleeing Ukraine, where you will become their sponsor. For more information on being a sponsor, including responsibilities, checks and how you can support your guests, or to register your interest please visit Homes for Ukraine: record your interest
Portsmouth City Council will be offering support to sponsors and guests who have registered under the Homes for Ukraine scheme, and contacting people on receipt of an application.
Local support
Portsmouth City Council is gathering information about local organisations, charities, and individuals who would like to offer support that are not already handled by the Government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme or by the charities listed above. This could include offers of employment opportunities from organisations, as well as offers of non-monetary support from individuals.
If you are able to offer support, excluding accommodation offers, please email the council via ukrainesupport@portsmouthcc.gov.uk.
Support for parents and carers
It is difficult to be able to answer questions that children may be asking about what is happening in Ukraine.
There are a number of resources available with content to help children better understand the information they are seeing and hearing about and also content that provides support to parents on how to talk about the war in Ukraine and where to find support.
A list of some of these resources can be found below:
- Ukraine: 5 ways to talk to children about conflict
- How to talk to Children about what’s happening in Ukraine and World War Three anxiety
- Advice if you’re upset by the news – BBC Newsround
- War in Ukraine – BBC Newsround