At the time of writing this article, we are in the fifth week of the war in Ukraine. Like everyone else, I have been shocked by the terrible scenes that we are witnessing on a daily basis while also being humbled by the resistance and acts of heroism of the Ukrainian people.
Many of our communities are home to people with links to Ukraine. I know that councils across the country are doing all they can to show their solidarity with the Ukrainian people and those in their communities who are most directly affected by this terrible war.
While the situation on the ground may have changed by the time you are reading this, the need to support evacuees is likely to have increased.
The public response to the Government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme has been inspiring, and, working with local volunteers, councils will play a critically important role in helping evacuees to settle into their communities and access public services, such as schools, GP surgeries and counselling.
“Many of our communities are home to people with links to Ukraine”
The LGA is in constant contact with ministers and civil servants to ensure that the scheme works as seamlessly as possible on the ground – and please be rest assured that we are using these channels to highlight any issues or difficulties that you alert us to.
On a happier note, with the Easter break approaching, I hope you will be able to enjoy some time off and return refreshed ahead of the local elections in May.