Ukraine conflict: 9 ways to help the people of Ukraine from the UK - including donations and sponsors
From financial donations, to clothing and food supplies, there are plenty of ways to help the people of Ukraine from the UK
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has sparked both outrage and fear across the globe, with many people in the UK wondering what they can do to help.
The conflict has deepened in the past day after Russian forces shelled a nuclear power station in the south eastern city of Zaporizhzhia in Ukraine, causing a fire to break out in the educational and training building of the plant.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has said the fire did not cause a change in the plant’s radiation level and “essential” equipment has not been damaged.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that the attack of the power station, which is the largest in Europe, could “directly threaten the safety of all of Europe”.
Johnson called for an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council in light of the attack, with No 10 saying he would directly raise the issue with the Kremlin after speaking to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the early hours.
Vladimir Putin’s forces have fired more than 480 missiles in the invasion so far, according to a US defence official, prompting Western allies to respond with increased sanctions against Russia.
As the humanitarian crisis unfolds, Home Secretary Priti Patel will visit Poland to launch the Ukraine family scheme, which will allow Britons and those settling in the UK to bring their relatives over to join them.
If you want to do your bit to help the people of Ukraine, these are some of the ways you can show your support.
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The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has said the fire did not cause a change in the plant’s radiation level and “essential” equipment has not been damaged.
5. Apply to be a sponsor
The government will be launching a new sponsorship scheme to make sure that Ukrainians who have been forced to flee their homes have a route to safety. The scheme will match people, charities, businesses and community groups to Ukrainians who do not have family ties to the UK. Details of the scheme and how to apply will be published soon on the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities website.
6. Write to your local MP
Writing a letter to your local MP can help to put pressure on the UK government to act and place further sanctions on Russia. You can get in touch with your MP via email or post to their constituency address. Details on how to get in touch can be found on parliament.uk.
7. Support local journalism
English-language news outlets in Ukraine, such as the Kyiv Independent and the New Voice of Ukraine, are covering developments on the ground as the conflict unfolds, using local journalists, helping us to stay up to date with current events. Following events from respected sources helps to tackle misinformation online.
8. Protest for peace
Joining a peace protest is a public way of showing solidarity and support for the people of Ukraine, while also putting pressure on those in power to do more to help those affected by the conflict.