The UK has a long history of supporting those fleeing conflict, and I know many people want to help. It is important the right help is given, and it does not hinder a very complex situation.
If you are hosting Ukrainian refugees, this guide will be very helpful with lots of details that they need to know when they arrive:
Financial donations
If you want to donate money, there are a number of charities providing humanitarian relief in Ukraine.
The UK Government will match public donations to this appeal pound-for-pound up to £25 million:
Donate to the Disasters Emergency Committee Ukraine Appeal
There are also other charities supporting the people of Ukraine:
There are lots of other organisations across the UK and internationally who have launched appeals, and you may wish to donate through these organisations instead. There are some simple steps you can take to ensure your money is safe and being used effectively:
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Check the charity’s name and registration number using the search the charity register tool
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Most charities with an income of £5,000 or more must be registered, which means they are regulated by The Charity Commission
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Make sure the charity is genuine before giving any financial information
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If in doubt, ask the charity or organisation for more information
Donating essential supplies
One of the best ways to help is by donating cash through trusted charities and aid organisations, rather than donating goods. Cash can be transferred quickly to areas where it is needed and individuals and aid organisations can use it to buy what is most needed. Unsolicited donations of goods, although well-meant, can obstruct supply chains and delay more urgent life-saving assistance from getting through.
In particular, the Polish Government have specifically said:
"We call on everyone wishing to help not to organise further collections of in-kind donations, as their transport to Poland – followed by a lengthy unloading, storage, selection and distribution procedure – generates disproportionate amounts of additional work and cost, which proves ineffective and counterproductive to the needs of those affected.
We encourage everyone wishing to help to organise fundraisers and direct donations of funds to verified organisations that will use the funds received for assistance provided in accordance with the strict needs and effective operation in the long term."
Apply to be a sponsor
The government has launched a new sponsorship scheme to make sure that Ukrainians who have been forced to flee their homes have a route to safety.
The scheme matches people, charities, businesses and community groups to Ukrainians who do not have family ties to the UK. You can find out more here: Homes for Ukraine
Offering Space for Refugees
You may want to visit charities that undertake this type of work already:
