Newark and Sherwood District Council pledges commitment to welcome Ukraine refugees

At last night’s Full Council committee meeting, Chairman of Newark and Sherwood District Council, Councillor Penny Rainbow spoke on behalf of all District Councillors and officers as she shared united thoughts and prayers for all those suffering in Ukraine.

Councillor Rainbow began, “It is only right that I open today’s meeting by, on behalf of the District Council and its members, taking a moment to think about the people of Ukraine, plus their families and their friends, some of whom may live in our district.

“We stand with Ukraine and condemn the unprovoked attack from Vladimir Putin and the Russian government. Our thoughts are with all the people that have suffered, are suffering and will suffer as a result of this senseless attack.

“Families have had to flee their homes with only the items they could carry, leaving behind their entire livelihoods. In some cases families have been separated, people have been injured and many lives have been lost. Homes have been destroyed or are unsafe to live in. Critical infrastructure such as health facilities, water supplies and schools have also been damaged or destroyed.

“As a District Council, we will do all we can to support the ongoing efforts and have already pledged our commitment to support and welcome refugees.  We will be among the first to step up when the ask comes from central Government.

Councillor Rainbow concluded her address by thanking all the residents of Newark and Sherwood, “Finally, I would also like to express our thanks to the residents of our district, many of whom have stepped up immediately to help gather donations and care packages for the people of Ukraine.  To all Ukrainian citizens; we all stand with you in solidarity.”

The District Council raised the Ukraine Friendship Flag at Castle House at a ceremony attended by all Councillors and senior officers from Newark and Sherwood District Council last night.  For those residents wishing to make donations to support Ukraine, a list of charities is available on the District Council website.