Norfolk marks one year of the Homes for Ukraine scheme

Norfolk is marking the first anniversary of the UK Government's Homes for Ukraine programme, which has seen 1,955 Ukrainian guests, including 640 children, arrive in the county to stay with 822 hosts.

Since the very first guests arrived in Norfolk one year ago, in the week of the 14 March 2022, Ukrainian guests have been placed with hosts in every part of the county.

These have included 405 Ukrainian children placed in schools around Norfolk, as well as 48 young people in colleges and sixth forms, to ensure children displaced by war continue to receive the education they need.

The programme was launched in March 2022 to provide support to Ukraine following the Russian invasion on 24 February, 2022.

Cllr Andrew Proctor, Leader of Norfolk County Council, said: "I want to express my gratitude to the people of Norfolk and the UK for their support of the Homes for Ukraine programme. It is heartening to see the way our communities have come together to support those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. Through our collective efforts, we have been able to make a real difference in the lives of displaced families and individuals, providing them with the support they need to rebuild their lives.

"The Homes for Ukraine programme is a testament to the power of international cooperation and the importance of standing together in times of crisis. I am proud of the role Norfolk County Council has played in supporting this vital programme and look forward to continuing to work with our partners to provide support and build stronger relationships between the UK and Ukraine."

Since its launch, Homes for Ukraine has provided crucial support to displaced families and individuals in Ukraine, providing housing and other essential services. The programme has also helped to build stronger relationships between the UK and Ukraine, demonstrating the power of international cooperation in times of crisis.

In a joint statement, the civic leaders of Norfolk's county, district, borough and Norwich City councils said: "We want to recognise the incredible kindness and generosity of all hosts and communities across Norfolk in welcoming Ukrainians to the county. We also want to recognise the strength and resilience of our Ukrainian guests; Norfolk continues to stand in solidary with the Ukrainian people.

"Although there may still be a long way to go, we will continue to provide all available support and services to both hosts and guests. We ask that Norfolk residents help us too, as there is still a need for guests to be hosted by Norfolk residents."

The war in Ukraine has now entered its second year, and the need for support and compassion for those displaced by the conflict has not changed. Any Norfolk residents who feel they are able to offer support, including by signing up to be a host under the Homes for Ukraine scheme, can continue to sign up via the GOV.UK website or by contacting Norfolk County Council at ncchomesforukraine@norfolk.gov.uk.

Councils across Norfolk have been working closely with the UK Government and other partners to provide support for Homes for Ukraine, including through fundraising initiatives and awareness-raising activities. Norfolk County Council is committed to continuing to support the programme and to working with partners to address the ongoing challenges facing Ukraine and its people.

For more information on the Homes for Ukraine programme visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/ukraine.

Find the full joint statement issued by the chairs of Norfolk's county, district, borough and city councils.