EVESHAM’S historic Bell Tower will be lit up in yellow and blue as Wychavon marks the first anniversary of the war in Ukraine.
Residents are also being encouraged to join in the national one-minute silence on Friday (February 24) to mark the anniversary. With the support of All Saints Church in Evesham, the town’s historic Bell Tower will also be lit up in yellow and blue on the night.
The Homes for Ukraine scheme was launched three weeks after the start of Russia’s invasion to provide safe places for Ukrainian citizens.
Since the scheme began, more than 200 people across Wychavon have opened up their homes to more than 300 people fleeing the war. They have not only provided a home for Ukrainian people but also support to build a new life in England.
Officers from Wychavon have played their part, carrying out hundreds of accommodation checks, distributing almost £270,000 of financial help from government funding and offering ongoing support and guidance to both hosts and Ukrainian guests. Members of the Ukrainian community have also joined the Wychavon team as liaison officers and rematching officers, to make sure people have the support they need.
Ahead of the anniversary, the Ukrainian flag has been hoisted high above the Civic Centre in Pershore as a show of unity.
Coun Alex Sinton, chairman of Wychavon District Council, said: “Over the last year I’ve been moved by the compassion of our communities and the dedication of our staff to making sure our Ukrainian guests have the support they need to rebuild their lives.
“We all hope and pray peace will soon be restored to Ukraine. But for as long as the war continues, we will continue to play our part – as I know our communities will – to support those affected by this terrible conflict.
Rev Andrew Spurr, Vicar of Evesham and All Saints Church, said: “The courage, fortitude and tenacity of the Ukrainian people embodies some of the best qualities that humans are capable of.
“We must continue to keep this unnecessary war front and centre of our minds and our resolve. It is in everyone’s interests to have a world accountable to the rule of law; the Ukrainian cause is everyone’s cause.”
