Extra money is being set aside in West Norfolk to help those arriving in the area from the Ukraine.
The borough council is setting aside ÂŁ7500 from the West Norfolk Wins lottery to provide support to those who need essentials.
The money will be distributed by the council’s Lily service and any requests for support should be directed to them via the website www.asklily.org.uk. Individuals can self-refer through the website, or third parties can refer on their behalf by completing the referral form (https://forms.west-norfolk.gov.uk/UKRAINIANCRISISSUPPORTREFERRAL/launch).
They will work out what they need distributing a voucher, actual items like food or clothing, or help with fuel costs. Lily Support Workers will also be able to signpost individuals to any other local or regional support.
Stuart Dark, MBE, borough council leader said: “Anyone who has seen the harrowing scenes coming out of Ukraine understands the real and urgent need to help those affected. We are pleased that we have been able to move swiftly to support people arriving in West Norfolk.
“The contributions that people have made by purchasing West Norfolk Wins lottery tickets are being put to good use to support those who are fleeing their homes in the Ukraine. We envisage that those arriving from the Ukraine will have very few possessions with them, and while they will be entitled to access benefits, it can take a little while for those to kick in. This fund will be there to fill that gap in the short term. The compassion that people have shown is astounding. We expect that many refugees from the Ukraine will come here to be with family members or to settle in a community that can support them. This fund will show that we are ready to welcome them and support them through this distressing time.
Meanwhile, The Hanseatic Union and Access is providing wellbeing support for those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. They have received funding from Norfolk Community Foundation to extend the support they can provide in the local community. They will be offering three types of support:
– The workshop, based in Kings Lynn, is delivering sessions in local primary schools to help children process their feelings through drama,
– Support through email or Facebook for people who want to contact multilingual staff to share and talk through their emotions
– Relaxation and social sessions at Access, Hospital Mews, Kings Lynn on 29 March from 7-9pm. A drop-in session for sharing, and learning relaxation skills, to have a cuppa, to give everyone time to chat and connect.
Julie Chaplin, from The Hanseatic Union, said: “The war in Ukraine is a terrible time and we, as always, are here to help everyone in our community. Anyone who feels alone or frightened can get in touch with us and talk,or come to our social event to chat.”