Posted on Thursday 24th August 2023
Stafford’s historic Shire Hall is showing solidarity with the people of Ukraine by lighting up in blue and yellow.
The Ukrainian flag will also be flown from the building throughout the day, when tens of thousands of Ukrainians across the country will be marking Ukraine Independence Day on 24 August.
The gesture shows the county council’s continuing support for the people of Ukraine, as the war with Russia continues.
It is also in support of the more than 1,000 Ukrainians who have made Staffordshire their home since the start of the conflict in February 2022, as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme.
Of these 1,000, 743 remain in Staffordshire, with 262 moving to private accommodation, and more than 150 returning to Ukraine.
The Homes for Ukraine scheme, which is being administered by Staffordshire County Council alongside district and borough councils, health, education and the voluntary sector, is still going strong, with 24 new arrivals in July alone.
The county council has a dedicated resettlement team that will work directly with sponsors and guests on the Homes for Ukraine programme, as well resettlement more broadly.
Staffordshire County Council Cabinet Member for Communities Victoria Wilson said:
“As the conflict with Russia continues, it is important for us to show our support to Ukrainians across the world, and especially those who continue to make our county their home. By lighting up the Shire Hall and flying the flag on 24 August, we can send a strong message of support and solidarity to our Ukrainian friends.
“We also want to pay testament to the generosity of our sponsors, who are graciously giving their homes to help people fleeing the war. As the war continues, we will always need more sponsors who can transform the lives of people who have fled the devastating war in Ukraine.”
To become a sponsor, contact the resettlement team at Staffordshire County Council at ukraine@staffordshire.gov.uk.