Together with partners from Uttlesford District Council, Citizens Advice Uttlesford and TouchPoint Stansted, our Community Responders are actively working with people arriving from the Ukraine into Stansted Airport

Uttlesford has a fantastic reputation for being a supportive community, and our residents have risen to the challenge time and again to support those in need. This was demonstrated throughout the pandemic, and latterly through our response to the Afghanistan situation. This kindness and generosity is being shown once again as we welcome refugees into the district, who have been affected by the conflict in the Ukraine.

Our team of Community Responders are working with refugees from point of arrival at Stansted Airport. Passengers are currently triaged by the Red Cross on arrival, and then provided with hotel accommodation, or given access to transport to continue their journey to their final destination in the UK. For those staying within our district who do not have a host family in place, we are meeting with them daily to support with the provision of food and other essentials, providing access to phones and internet to help with arranging more permanent accommodation, access to Universal Credit and other advise, as well as mental health support for those affected by trauma as a result of the conflict.

We are working closely with the refugees to help them get to where they want to be. Most will transit out of Uttlesford, but for those that are remaining, or still in transition, we are providing a full package of support to help them feel safe and welcome here.

It is likely in the coming days and weeks that we will be calling on Uttlesford residents once again to help with our new guests. Please watch our social media channels (Facebook/Twitter) and this website for updates and appeals for help.

We acknowledge the support of the voluntary sector once again in immediately addressing the challenges presented to us, and thank you for your continued commitment.