Vital services funded to help Ukrainian Refugees in Essex
23rd March 2023
The Ukraine Refugee Support Project was launched last year, following the invasion of Ukraine. Since then, under the management of Essex Community Foundation, it has helped local charities and community organisations across the county that are providing support for refugees arriving into Essex.
This funding project focused on preparing support for refugees arriving from Ukraine, supporting the direct delivery of services for the refugees and developing longer-term support for their integration.
Among the Essex organisations to receive funding are:
- Unpuzzled Theatre Company (pictured) received £2,800 to adapt a traditional Ukrainian folktale into an interactive theatre workshop for children, young people, and families of the Southend community. This supports community cohesion and building understanding locally of a different culture, and for the refugees taking part, it aids their learning of the English language and making friends.
- Ukrainians in Thurrock Community Group were awarded £2,235 to run a range of activities for refugee families in Thurrock. This includes art, chess, and language clubs.
- Welcome to the UK received £7,000 towards their running costs so they can continue supporting migrant and refugee families in Southend.
- Volya Ukraina received £2,500 to run a community hub for Ukrainian refugees in Colchester, where they can feel safe and welcomed. Activities include mental health therapies, to art and music workshops.
Though a year has passed since the invasion of Ukraine, its impact will undoubtedly last for many years to come, continuing to inflict suffering on the millions of displaced Ukrainians around Europe.
Sadly, Ukraine is but one of the many countries facing conflict and discrimination around the world, with thousands of people being forced to flee their homes every day. The work being done by community organisations in Essex is helping to ensure displaced individuals and families escaping conflict and discrimination get the help they need.
Rosemary Macdonald, CEO at UKCF, said: “These UK projects are vital to the long-term inclusion and integration of refugees and asylum seekers who are hoping for a safer life. They did not choose this direction and should have every opportunity to feel welcomed and included in their new communities. With flexible funding from partners like the Freemasons’ charity, these essential services can continue to provide this support and help people to rebuild their lives.”
Les Hutchinson, Chief Executive of the Masonic Charitable Foundation, the Freemasons’ charity, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to offer significant aid to many Ukrainians who have arrived in this country. They have abandoned everything in a country grappling with the consequences of a catastrophic conflict, and I am proud that the assistance provided by the Freemasons is making such a difference.”
Andy Payne Worpole, Head of Programmes at ECF, said: “Arriving into a country where you may not have been before, to a language you might not speak fluently, and needing to rely on others for help, is overwhelming. Charities are helping people to find their way, to build support networks and to settle into their new communities. Funding like this from the Freemasons’ is supporting their vital work, and we are pleased to work with them to get grants out to Essex groups.”
To apply for funding, click here.