North East Lincolnshire Council offers message of support for Ukraine

THE leader of North East Lincolnshire Council has today issued a statement in response to the ongoing situation in Ukraine.

Cllr Philip Jackson confirmed how the authority was on stand-by to assist in any way it could, and action would be taken as further Government guidelines were issued.

He said officers were already looking at steps taken in previous international crises’ and how they could be amended and implemented as quickly as necessary. Schemes in North East Lincolnshire have included supporting people fleeing Afghanistan to start a new life here, and the resettlement of asylum seekers and vulnerable people and children.

He said: “What we are witnessing in Ukraine is incomprehensible and I am sure I speak for the whole of North East Lincolnshire when I say how the dreadful plight of the country’s people is in our thoughts, hopes and prayers.

“Of course, we will do all we can and in the coming days the picture will become clearer on what that help and support will look like.”

In the wake of the escalating crisis, some private landlords have already contacted the council about homes in North East Lincolnshire they could make available to those seeking sanctuary in Britain.

The Council is keeping all these details and is looking at ways in which it can accelerate the necessary processes to ensure such accommodation is ready as soon as needed. A form for landlords is being prepared to go onto the council’s website, but in the meantime property owners can email [email protected]

The authority is also contacting local support organisations and will issue more information on that in the coming days, with a page on its website now live where news will be published on. Go to www.nelincs.gov.uk and follow the link on the home page.

Those wanting to make financial donations are advised to contact the British Red Cross Ukraine Appeal, which is helping to provide food, medicines and basic hygiene supplies to people who have been displaced. Unicef also has an appeal for funds to protect the children of Ukraine at www.unicef.org.uk Other donations can be made at: UNHCR (The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) and www.dec.org.uk