Published: Monday, 25th Apr 2022

The borough’s first arrivals under the Homes for Ukraine scheme have received a warm Bolton welcome from their host families and the council’s support team.

Bolton Council has been notified that more Ukrainian refugees will be arriving shortly, including a number of children.

The scheme allows individuals, charities, community groups and businesses to offer a safe place for Ukrainians fleeing the conflict – including those with no family ties to the UK.

To help people settle in, Bolton Council is working with various charity and voluntary sector organisations, to ensure they have access to health care, education and employment opportunities.

There is also work going on to ensure the Ukrainian guests have the emotional support they need as well as adequate and appropriate supplies.

The council is also carrying out accommodation and safeguarding checks to ensure everyone’s welfare.

Rachel Tanner, the council’s Director of Adult Services, said:

“For the past couple of weeks we have been busy preparing for the first refugees to settle in Bolton as they escape the conflict in Ukraine.

“Alongside the voluntary, community and faith sector, we have a whole host of support available to help welcome people to the borough, including emotional, financial, and practical advice.

“We’ve also been working with our local Ukrainian communities to see how we can support them, and this offer of support will remain open indefinitely.”

Yaroslaw Tymchyshyn, Chair of the Bolton Branch of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain, said:

“I’m incredibly proud of the outpouring of support for those affected by the invasion of Ukraine and I am sure that our Bolton community will be equally as welcoming to our new guests, once they arrive.

“Now is the time to allow them to settle in Bolton with their hosts, and get the support they need after a traumatic few months.

“The Bolton Branch will be offering them everything they need while they are here in the community.”