Find out how you can help Ukrainian refugees at online community event next week

Residents can find out how they can help those fleeing the war in the Ukraine at a community event next week.

The online event on Tuesday 29 March will tell people about charities helping to house and support refugees and how they can volunteer or fundraise.

The government launched the Ukraine Family Scheme and the Homes for Ukraine sponsorship scheme following last month’s invasion.

It means people can sponsor families fleeing the war by offering them a home.

Critics say people may be keen to help but are unlikely to know people who need sponsoring.

The government advised residents to contact charities, faith groups or local community organisations that are starting to make connections between individuals.

Thousands of people signed up to the scheme to offer rooms in their home for at least six months.

Hackney Council will do checks to make sure homes on offer are suitable and manage interim payments for guests.

It will also provide school spaces for children fleeing the conflict and help with referrals to healthcare and support in finding work.

The council will also administer the £350 a month optional payment for sponsors.

It said: “It is important for us to work closely with community organisations and wider civil society so that we can effectively connect those who have spare rooms or homes with groups that could act as the main sponsor, and those who could help with fundraising.”

Organisers at Hackney Council added: “We hope that this meeting will be attended by volunteers, grassroots and community organisations and the faith sector, as an opportunity to discuss what coordination might be required.”

The event runs from 4.30pm to 6.30pm on Tuesday March 29. Register for free at: Homes for Ukraine: coordinating support for Ukrainian refugees in Hackney Tickets, Tue 29 Mar 2022 at 16:30 | Eventbrite

Migrants and refugees charity Praxis has teamed up with Hackney CVS to hold an information event in April for the Ukrainian community.

It will cover how to help family members get to the UK, the support on offer when they arrive and visa information.

An immigration adviser will also be on hand at the event at the Adiaha Antigha Centre, Dalston Lane, from 1pm to 4pm on Tuesday 5 April.