Rachel has praised the determination of Ukrainian refugees who want to contribute to life in Redditch.
She recently met with a group of Ukrainian refugees who now call Redditch home following Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.
At their meeting, refugees asked Rachel about how they can contribute more to life in the UK, as well as the work the Government is doing to continue supporting Ukrainian refugees.
Rachel said:
“The UK is a kind and compassionate country, and we’ve stepped up to support refugees who have fled Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine.
“We should all be proud that many Ukrainian refugees now call Redditch home. Thank you to the many residents who have welcomed Ukrainians into their homes. Your selfless actions will never be forgotten.
“It was lovely to meet with them recently and to hear about how they’re contributing to life in the UK, and how they want to contribute even more.
“Despite everything they have been through since the beginning of the war, leaving their homes and now living in the UK, they have all shown remarkable resilience.
“I will continue to support them in any way that I can.”
Tetiana Politova, a Ukrainian refugee who helped to organise the meeting with Rachel, said:
“Redditch - you are our temporary home now. England and Ukraine have been together since the first days of the war.
"A beautiful little oasis in the midst of huge cities. So cosy, peaceful, and green, a lovely little town. Safe, quiet, peaceful - that's so important to all of us.
“Thank you, England, for helping us to live, to create, to love. We learn the culture, the traditions, the language, the places.
“Thank you, Rachel, for caring, for your willingness to support us, for meeting us, your good conversation - we will remember it.
“Your work is enormous and very important for Redditch and for the people.
“We also want to be useful here, to show love and joy, to be active in the life of Redditch, so please do not forget us.
“English people are hospitable and friendly, and we Ukrainian people are always determined."
You can watch Tetiana’s story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aoTgCLX7KUw&t=32s
