In recent days and weeks I’ve been moved by how many emails I’ve received from people in Cardiff Central asking how they can help.
I’ve been overwhelmed with messages, with many feeling helpless but asking me how they can show their support. One of the best ways you can support is through a cash donation through a reputable charity with an operation on the ground in Ukraine already.
There have been some fantastic efforts locally for collecting supplies that then need to be transported and processed, but cash donations can reach people quickly and buy what is needed. Here’s a few things we can do.
*DONATIONS*
Disasters Emergency Committee humanitarian fund: https://donation.dec.org.uk/ukraine-humanitarian-appeal?fbclid=IwAR14CizZsnPcIAq-_jlWGE9hyoXkVTUMW_COmJ153MtWD5gimWgBIBu8gHQ
Give to the British Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal: https://donate.redcross.org.uk/appeal/ukraine-crisis-appeal
Save the Children Ukraine Appeal: https://www.savethechildren.org.uk/where-we-work/europe/ukraine
Oxfam Ukraine Appeal: https://bit.ly/35Ki6Bu
Support Mick Antoniw MS’s appeal to purchase medical equipment to treat traumas and casualties as a result of the invasion:https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/helpukraine
Helpline and support
If you are an immediate family member of a British National normally living in Ukraine and intend to apply for a visa under the Family Migration route, read the guidance on visas for immediate family members of British nationals normally living in Ukraine. You should call +44 (0) 300 3032785 for assistance before applying. Lines are open Monday – Friday 8am-8pm and Saturday and Sunday 9am-5.30pm.
The situation in Ukraine may be traumatic for family members, friends and those currently in living in Wales. The CALL (Community Advice & Listening Line) Mental Health helpline is available 24 hours a day to listen and provide support. Call 0800 132737 or text ‘Help’ to 81066.
*OFFER A SPARE ROOM TO REFUGEES*
Connect with charities who match you with refugees or asylum seekers in need of somewhere to stay. Hosts must be vetted, so start the process today! https://www.refugeesathome.org
*KEEP UP TO DATE*
Keep up to date with the work and events organised by Voice of Ukraine Wales: https://www.facebook.com/ukraine.wales/ – only share news from legitimate, trusted sources.
*STAND IN SOLIDARITY*
Stand in solidarity with refugees by joining Refugee Council’s calls to increase safe routes for refugees instead of removing them: https://bit.ly/3IATolG
Share the wonderful mural that has appeared overnight in Cardiff Central (on Northcote Lane, just off City Road) in support of the people of Ukraine: https://nation.cymru/culture/the-stunning-ukraine-flag-street-art-that-has-appeared-in-cardiff/