Southampton shows support for Ukraine - How you can help

Southampton’s Civic Centre clock tower will be lit blue and yellow from tonight (Monday 28 February) in solidarity with the people of Ukraine who are currently suffering from the military aggression of the Russian State

The blue and yellow national flag of Ukraine is also now flying outside the Civic Centre and the Guildhall will be blue and yellow from Tuesday night (1 March).

Leader of the Council, Councillor Daniel Fitzhenry, said:

“We have all watched in horror these past few days at the awful situation in Ukraine, with the unprovoked attack on an independent democratic state.

“Southampton City Council is reaching out to offer support to Ukrainian citizens and their families in the city, and to those with links to other nearby Eastern European states who may be affected by this unfolding crisis.

"We also stand with the Russians who have made our city their home and those in Russia who are making their voices heard against their Government.

“At times like these the people of Southampton always come together to support fellow residents and we've had many requests from people wishing to donate and help. We’re signposting to the best ways to donate so please do check out our website and and social media channels where we’ll be promoting and amplifying the great work that’s happening in our community to support the people of Ukraine.

“We pray for peace and our thoughts, hopes and best wishes go to all innocent people unnecessarily caught up in this tragedy.”

How you can help

Many national and international aid organisations have set up appeals to help support and protect people caught up in this conflict.

You can make a financial donation to places like the British Red Cross, UNICEF or Disasters Emergency Committee via their websites.

The Home Office website details support available for family members of British nationals in Ukraine, and Ukrainian nationals in Ukraine and the UK.

The government is welcoming applications to the Homes for Ukraine Scheme, which enables enable individuals, charities, community groups and businesses to volunteer accommodation and provide a route to safety for Ukrainians. You can register your interest in being a sponsor at Homes for Ukraine.

Locally the Polish Social Club in Southampton have a Just Giving page which you can donate to. Check in on their Facebook page for the latest information about their appeal.

On Saturday 26 March a lorry is leaving Southampton to bring supplies into Ukraine. Find out more about the collection point at SO:Linked.

Southampton united against hate

Southampton has a long and proud history of tolerance and respect for diversity including different cultures and faiths, with communities living peacefully side by side for generations. This is something we can all be proud of.

You can learn more and report an incident using the Love Don't Hate app. To download the app, visit Google Play or the Apple App Store and search for 'Southampton Love Don't Hate'.

CLEAR and EU Welcome

CLEAR and EU Welcome are able to offer advice, guidance and signposting to new arrivals from Ukraine who have now arrived in the city. This advice includes topics such as immigration status, benefits and housing. People can make contact with them via phone on 02380 221111 or request a call back via the form on their website.

They are unable to offer advice to those seeking to bring family members from Ukraine to the UK.