Published: Thursday, 23 February 2023

Local authority partners across Oxfordshire are marking the anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine by reaffirming their joint commitment to provide vital help and support to those affected.

The city council, along with the county and district councils, will be observing the national one-minute silence at 11am 24 February and are flying the Ukrainian flag to stand in solidarity with Ukraine. In Oxford the Lord Mayor will attend a Ukraine peace rally organised by the Oxford University Ukrainian Society in Radcliffe Square.

The councils, alongside health and voluntary and community sector partners, formed a dedicated working partnership to enable a joined-up response to the government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme launched in March 2022.

Residents in Oxford and across the county have shown their support and generosity by hosting Ukrainian guests under the scheme and through a variety of community activities.

This partnership has evolved to work collectively to support all refugees and those who seek asylum in the county and will keep supporting Ukrainian guests, and their hosts, as the war in Ukraine continues.

“A year ago this Friday, Russia launched its full-scale attack on Ukraine. The anniversary of this event is a sombre moment to remember all those who have died and those left behind who endure and resist this invasion. Our thoughts are with all Ukrainians, especially those in our community in Oxford who will be worrying about the safety of friends and loved ones still in Ukraine. I want to thank all those in Oxford who have stood in solidarity with Ukraine, who have given support, and especially those who have opened their homes to Ukrainian refugees. On the long road to peace and reconstruction we must all keep fresh in our minds our horror at this war and our compassion for the country. The anniversary in particular is a day for our thoughts. The council will be flying the flag of Ukraine to show our solidarity and support.”

Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council

“As we enter the second year of Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, we stand together with the Ukrainian people in condemning this terrible war. Many Ukrainian people have come to our county to find a safe place to live and are welcome members of our local communities. We will continue to support them in every way that we can, and we thank local residents for their generosity in offering shelter and support.”

Councillor Liz Leffman, Leader of Oxfordshire County Council

The partnership continues to seek new hosts, in particular anyone that can support families from Ukraine. All hosts will now receive a monthly payment of £550 until the end of March 2024. Anyone interested can visit Oxfordshire County Council's website for further information.

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