1 week Ago
‘I FEEL needed’ – a Ukrainian refugee in Warwickshire has told of how she has found hope and purpose through her volunteering work. Olha has been in the UK for over a year. When she first arrived, she felt overwhelmed by loneliness and anxiety, often finding herself in tears – but has since found a sense of belonging and happiness thanks to the support of the community.
She said everything changed when she was introduced to Warwickshire CAVA (Community and Voluntary Action). She added: “Volunteering is sunshine on a long rainy day. CAVA helped me feel the joy of life because it’s important for me to feel that I’m helping people.
Now I’m happy, I laugh, and enjoy life.” Through volunteering, Olha has made new friends and has also been able to volunteer in a playgroup, looking after pre-school children. She said: “When I come to the kindergarten, I am very happy.
I love children and parents, and it is mutual. I have worked as a teacher all my life; this is my calling, it inspires me. “I was very sad to leave my job in Ukraine, and in the toddler group, I seem to have returned to my favourite job again and I feel needed.
” Olha sees volunteering as an opportunity to contribute to society, as well as an opportunity to say thank you to the British people ‘for the warm shelter for the Ukrainian people’. She added: “It has also provided new acquaintances with interesting people, a chance to study a new culture and its traditions, and an opportunity to experience life as it is: turbulent, rich, colourful, multifaceted.” Charles Barlow, Head of Community Partnerships at Warwickshire County Council (WCC), said: “Individuals like Olha have brought a remarkable sense of hope and resilience to our community.
Their dedication and willingness to give back, despite their own challenges, have been truly inspiring. “We are immensely grateful for their contributions, which have not only enriched our communities but also demonstrated the profound impact of solidarity and support. Their efforts remind us of the strength found in unity and compassion.
” Over the past three years, more than a thousand Ukrainian nationals have begun a new chapter in Warwickshire thanks to over 950 hosted relationships and support from generous Warwickshire residents, many of whom have hosted multiple times. WCC continues to appeal for more residents to come forward as hosts as the war in Ukraine continues. The ‘Homes for Ukraine’ Sponsorship scheme supports Ukrainians fleeing the war by connecting them with sponsors offering accommodation.
All hosts receive a £350 payment for hosting. Visit https://tinyurl.com/ycy37d63 for more information.
Anyone interested in hosting in Warwickshire can call 0800 408 1447 or email [email protected] for more information. Visit www.wcava.
org.uk or www.warwickshire.
gov.uk/volunteering for more on volunteering in Warwickshire..
