On the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, we would like to pay tribute to the outpouring of support and goodwill from Merton’s residents: from those who opened their homes to host refugees, donated money to help the effort, to those who have volunteered at the Polish Family Association, Commonside Trust, Wimbledon Guild, Age UK Merton, and other community organisations.

Merton is working towards becoming a Borough of Sanctuary, a place where refugees and asylum seekers from Ukraine and across the world will always be welcome. Despite being one of the smallest boroughs in London, Merton is fourth in London for the number of residents participating in the Homes for Ukraine scheme, sponsoring over 600 Ukrainian refugees.

The Ukrainian Hub, set up by the Polish Family Association and Commonside Trust at the New Horizon Centre in Pollards Hill, has provided over 1,150 face to face appointments and 3,250 phone consultations to Ukrainian refugees. Over 250 Ukrainian children have been supported to register at school, 170 adults have participated in skills programmes to become job ready, with 20 jobs secured through the hub, and over 200 people have enrolled in English classes. We’re proud this invaluable support is providing tangible outcomes for refugees.   

The Council will continue to provide support to our hosts and new residents, help families to settle, secure school places, and offer our broadest and most empathetic support.

Find more information about the Homes for Ukraine scheme in Merton here.