Helping Ukraine

Earlier this evening Mayor Dave Hodgson met with some of Bedford Borough's Ukrainian community.

Mayor Dave said "I, like so many, am shocked and appalled by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Listening to our residents telling us of their family and friends experiences in Ukraine was beyond heart-breaking.

"You may have seen over the weekend we lit the Town Bridge and Riverside Bridge blue and yellow, the colours of the Ukrainian flag, to show our solidarity - though it seems such a little thing in the face of what is happening in Ukraine.

"It is so difficult to know what we can do as individuals and so many residents have already contacted me to ask how they can help. Having spoken with some of Bedford Borough's Ukrainian community we have identified three ways in which you can help:

• Donate essential items that will be transported to Ukraine. The most needed right now are, batteries, torches and candles, dry sanitary products, thermal clothes, gloves and hats, painkillers and duvets, blankets, sleeping bags, pillows and bedding. You can donate at the Polish House/Stacja Dom Polski at 18-20 Ashburnham Road, Bedford MK40 1DS, beside the railway station, this Wednesday and Saturday from 7PM. Please note, they cannot accept any food.
• Donate money to the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain at https://www.gofundme.com/f/helpukraine.
• Sign the petition on Parliament's website calling on the Government to waive visas requirement for Ukrainian refugees at https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/609530

Mayor Dave added "Bedford Borough Council has a proud history of humanitarian support during times of international crisis and welcomed refugees fleeing from Syria and most recently Afghanistan. In both of these cases the Council worked with the Home Office and the Local Government Association to help support these refuges, and we stand ready again to help those fleeing Ukraine."