The horror of what was happening in Ukraine was brought into our homes through television media, the internet, and the printed press. As millions of people fled the country – many with their families – the British Government set up the Homes for Ukraine Scheme (H4U) on 14 March 2022. Whilst the scheme received much negative press and there were considerable delays in providing sponsorship visas to Ukrainian refugees, finally, many people were able to come to the UK for safety.
Since the H4U Scheme was implemented, 1,600 Ukrainians have been welcomed into Oxfordshire homes. With the support of Host Abingdon, around 30 households in Abingdon and the surrounding villages have generously opened up their homes, representing around 70 Ukrainians who were seeking sanctuary from the war.
In partnership with local churches and organisations, Host Abingdon are supporting both Hosts and Guests. Since June, a weekly International Welcome Café has provided a great base for meeting others, finding out about support available in the local area and helping Ukrainian people get conversation practice to learn English.
On 24 August, Abingdon’s Abbey Gardens provided the location for the local Ukrainian community to mark their Independence Day with an event.
To meet the demand, adult English classes for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) have also been set up, which in turn helps Ukrainians to find local work and connections.
Whilst the Host journey may be challenging, it is also immensely rewarding. As some of the initial six-month placements end, some Hosts are choosing to continue or help other families, which is amazing. Organisers of Host Abingdon are also looking for new hosts to re-match existing local families on the scheme. As our Ukrainian Guests have completed all of their paperwork and now know their way around the area, many have jobs and speak good English; the result of which requires less support to be given by the Hosts for their second placements and people can meet before committing, which is really helpful.
One of the Abingdon Hosts, Charlotte, tells us more: "It has been a privilege to welcome our guests to be a part of our family. They are two of the strongest and bravest women we know. Through such an incredibly difficult time they have never let go of holding onto hope and it is an honour to witness their strength, faith, kindness and resolve and it has changed our lives forever."
For the Ukrainian refugees to have a safe sanctuary and be part of a local community where they are accepted means such a lot. Mahda and her daughter are currently staying with Charlotte and her family. “We live in a wonderful, incredible, kind family. We did not expect such a warm welcome from people who do not know us at all! A miracle happened to us!”
Host Abingdon seeks to support all asylum seekers and refugees in Abingdon and would love to hear from anyone who wants to get involved in this work. Either email hello@hostabingdon.org or visit their website at hostabingdon.org
