Welcome sessions for Ukrainian refugees and their hosts are currently taking place across East Dunbartonshire.
Drop-in events have been planned to give displaced persons and hosts the opportunity to speak to representatives from various teams across East Dunbartonshire Council including Education, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and the Community Planning Partnership & Resettlement Team in an informal and relaxed setting.
Council officers are working with partners including East Dunbartonshire Citizen Advice Bureau, East Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership, Greater Glasgow & Clyde NHS, East Dunbartonshire Action for Refugees and Police Scotland.
The aim of the events is to signpost refugees to support available locally, such as English for Speakers of Other Languages classes, and to offer advice on matters such as health, education, money and benefits.
Council leader Gordan Low, said, "We are glad to be able to provide assistance in the heart of our communities to those fleeing the shocking conflict and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. East Dunbartonshire Council has committed to participating and supporting a range of vulnerable people within managed resettlement programmes through official UK and Scottish Government schemes.
“The resettlement of refugees can include accommodation but also the whole wrap around support from both Council and key partners.
“Through partnership working we can bring together expertise to ensure that any refugees resettling in this area are fully supported as they adjust to their life here.
“We thank our communities for their generosity and support so far and for granting arriving displaced families and individuals the privacy and space to resettle in such challenging circumstances.”
Events have already been held at Gavin’s Mill in Milngavie and Lenzie Union Church, and further events are planned as follows:
Tuesday 5 July at Kirkintilloch Baptist Church from 2 - 4 pm
Wednesday 13 July at New Kilpatrick Church, Bearsden from 7- 9pm
Interpretation will be available for those who need it and refreshments will be on offer.
The Council’s specific commitment extends to the provision of four houses for refugees and to the necessary wider support from other Council services. Many families in East Dunbartonshire have also signed up as sponsors to the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ programme to host fleeing families in available accommodation in their own homes.
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