When Russia illegally invaded Ukraine, thousands of people were forced to flee their homes in search of safety. The UK stepped up and offered asylum to those in need, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
One year on, we are proud to say that over 117,000 Ukrainian people have arrived in the UK via the sponsorship scheme, to which generous individuals across the UK have opened their homes to Ukrainian families, providing them with a safe place to stay and a chance to start anew.
One of the success stories is that of Oleg, a renowned painter in his native Ukraine, who was able to continue creating incredible artwork despite the upheaval in his life. Today, he and his wife, Iryna, have started a new life in Newmarket and are eager to contribute to the West Suffolk community and the wider economy. Oleg is starting his own business, offering portraits of individuals, families, pets, and horses. If you want your portrait painted by one of the most talented Ukrainian artists living in the UK, you can contact Oleg via his website: http://mishchenko.com.ua/en/
Oleg's story is just one of many examples of the success of the Homes for Ukraine scheme. Across Suffolk, more than 1170 Ukrainians have been able to rebuild their lives, find work, and make valuable contributions to their communities. This is a testament to the bravery and resilience of the Ukrainian people and to the generosity and kindness of the Suffolk people.
Ultimately, the scheme in Suffolk has been an enormous success. It has provided a safe refuge for Ukrainian refugees but also helped contribute to the UK economy, illustrating how compassion and generosity can make a significant difference in other people's lives. I am proud to be a part of a community that has welcomed and supported those in need.
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