We are committed to supporting refugees who are fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. We are proud to be the UK's first Borough of Sanctuary and have resettled 55 refugee families in Lewisham in recent years.

We have written to the Government pledging our support in resettling Ukrainian refugees in Lewisham and urging them to set out any proposals for resettlement support.

"Communities and local authorities across the UK, such as ours in Lewisham, stand ready to help the Ukrainian people now suffering from the war in their country.

"Lewisham is living up to its role as a Borough of Sanctuary for refugees, asylum-seekers and migrants. Our community has risen to the humanitarian emergency with volunteers giving donations of money, clothes and other essential items for Ukrainians in need.

"Many residents of Lewisham are also willing to help accommodate Ukrainian refugees, as has been done for refugees from other areas of conflict with Lewisham recently resettling 55 families from Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan.

"This Council therefore offers our support in whichever way we can in welcoming and supporting Ukrainian refugees in this current crisis, so we urgently request the Government’s proposals for any resettlement support for Ukrainians seeking sanctuary in the UK."

Read the full letter from the Mayor and Cllr Bonavia.

How you can help

Lewisham Polish Centre is collecting donations for refugees arriving in Poland from Ukraine. Find out more information about what they need and how to donate.

There are a number of charities who are raising money to help support Ukrainian refugees. Find out more information and how to donate.

Helpline

Barnados has set up the Ukrainian Support Helpline to provide a holistic support service. The Helpline is available to anyone fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. Call  0800 148 8586  (Mon-Fri 10am-8pm or Sat 10am-3pm) or email ukrainiansupport@barnardos.org.uk.