Over 70 people attended a meeting hosted by Coventry City Council and Coventry Refugee and Migrant Centre to discuss how they could support Ukrainian refugees.

The meeting provided the opportunity for residents to ask questions and hear about the support that would be offered through the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ Scheme.

Praising the generosity and collective spirit of Coventry residents, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, Councillor David Welsh said: “What I witnessed at the meeting over the weekend was the very best of Coventry residents.

“Over 70 people stepped forward to offer their support in whatever way they could to complete strangers, from offering accommodation, to mental health support, the selfless attitude of Coventry residents is what makes this city one of the most welcoming places in the United Kingdom.

“The proud and unrivalled reputation this city has as a city of peace and reconciliation is not down simply to the support services we offer new arrivals, but it is also a result of the selfless attitude and welcoming nature of Coventry’s residents, and it makes me extremely proud to be a Coventrian.

“I would also like to extend my sincerest gratitude and thanks to each and every single Coventry resident who has either attended the meeting or expressed their interest in supporting Ukrainian refugees in whichever way they’re able to”.

Toni Soni, Director of Coventry Refugee and Migrant Centre said: “This weekend showed us that Coventry will not be providing empty platitudes but instead will be delivering meaningful action and support to those who need it most.

“As a centre, we have been a first-hand witness to the difference selfless support can make to new arrivals. It can be the difference between feeling welcomed or feeling ostracised, it can be the difference between full integration or non-integration, which is why this weekend’s meeting was incredibly vital.

“We’re at the beginning of what I’m sure will be a long journey for Ukrainians displaced from their homes, but with the continued support of Coventry residents and our partners across the city, we can begin to help them rebuild their lives in peace and sanctuary”.

Also present were representatives of the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain (Coventry) including Mario Kosmirak, who expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the generosity of Coventry residents in supporting those who were fleeing Ukraine.