It was a privilege to speak in the debate on Monday 14th November to talk about the local support provided in Runnymede and Weybridge, and in constituencies across the country, for Ukrainian refugees.
I was able to pay tribute and thank all those in Runnymede and Weybridge for their outstanding support, and mention the particular contributions of the Ukrainian group in the Revive Café in Chertsey run by Lizzie Wayland of the Beacon Church; Lesia Scholey and Cllr Charu Sood from Weybridge Friends of Ukraine who have been pivotal in leading support in Weybridge; Elmbridge CAN and the Weybridge Community Hub; and Olena Melnyk, a refugee herself who works in Runnymede Borough Council helping with translation for refugees. I also extended my thanks to the Right Reverend Bishop Kenneth Nowakowski – from the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of the Holy Family in London – who came to speak to my constituents last week.
In recent conversations with Cllr Tom Gracey, leader of Runnymede Borough Council, concerns were raised about the additional burden being placed on local authorities where sponsor and refugees relations have broken down. I raised this, and the potential for the Home for Ukraine scheme to be adapted for the local authority to act as a sponsor and receive the £350 payment, with the House. I look forward to hearing the specific plans in place in the medium and long-term to support those displaced by the conflict.
