The warm welcome given to Ukrainian guests who have come to live in the district continues with an event in Folkestone on Thursday 1 September.
Organised by Folkestone & Hythe District Council, refugees from the war-torn country and their hosts are invited to the Quarterhouse for the all-day event offering guidance and support on a range of subjects, all under one roof.
Staff from various organisations will be on hand to offer advice on benefits, family matters, housing, jobs and more.
As well as F&HDC, these include: Kent County Council, Home-Start, Future Skills, Cheriton Baptist Church/Quested Gallery, The Prince’s Trust, White Cliffs Countryside Partnership, Leas Cliff Hall, Kent Fire and Rescue Service, Kent Police, Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust and Social Enterprise Kent.
Just over five months since the launch of the government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme, latest figures show that there are 359 matched Ukrainian applicants in the Folkestone and Hythe district, predominately women and primary school-aged children. This is the fifth highest number in all Kent districts.
Cllr Jenny Hollingsbee, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “Individually and collectively, as a district we have pulled out all the stops to welcome our Ukrainian guests.
“This event will be a unique opportunity to meet them – and their hosts – and to offer guidance on everything from nursery placements to job skills. All are welcome to drop in, including anyone who is thinking about becoming a host.”
Leader Cllr David Monk thanked Creative Folkestone for the use of the Quarterhouse, adding: “This is another example of our community coming together to help those who have been forced to leave their country and for the time being at least, settle here.”
The Ukraine welcome event is free and is at the Quarterhouse, Tontine Street, Folkestone, from 10am to 4pm. Tea/coffee and cake will be served.