A Ukraine Support Hub was launched by the council at Bromley Civic Centre today.
The multi-agency centre, providing aid to Ukrainians new to the borough, was opened by the Mayor in her first official duty.
The borough’s support hub, which was piloted earlier in May, offers Ukrainians the opportunity to drop in between 9:30 and 12:30 to receive information and advice about subjects ranging from healthcare and employment to school placements and everyday issues. The hub hosts both representatives from various organisations and a wealth of material, both for the new residents of the borough and for residents hosting them.
Speaking about the Ukraine Support Hub, Cllr Kira Gabbert, Chairman of Children, Education & Families PDS Committee and Bickley and Sundridge ward councillor, who has led the council’s work supporting Ukrainians, said: “Bromley Council, along with many voluntary organisations and residents, are working extremely hard to support the Ukrainians who had to leave their home country in the most terrible circumstances. The Support Hub is one way we are trying to ensure our Ukrainian guests receive the help they need and feel the welcome they deserve.”
Cllr Gabbert added: “As many will know, Bromley became my home many years ago, having moved to the UK from Ukraine. I have never been more proud to be a Bromley resident, knowing how much the council, voluntary organisations and local communities are supporting Ukraine and its people in this very difficult and sad time.”
Bromley has had around 300 matched hosts so far as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme, with many other Ukrainians moving to the borough to live with family. As a borough, Bromley currently has the fourth highest number of residents who have accepted a Ukrainian family in London.
Demand for school places is high, with a number of new requests being received each day, but the borough is working fast to ensure those children are swiftly provided with the opportunity to learn and a chance to meet new friends.
Mayor of Bromley, Cllr Hannah Gray, commented: “I want to say thank you to all the host sponsors who have come forward to aid Ukrainian families at this time, and to all the organisations working so hard at the Ukraine Support Hub. Their willingness to go the extra mile to help and their community spirit is a shining example of the attitude that makes me so proud to be Mayor of this fantastic borough.”
More information about the Ukraine Support Hub.
ENDS
For media enquiries, please contact Andrew Rogers, Head of Public Affairs, on 020 8461 7670 or email andrew.rogers@bromley.gov.uk