Ukrainians celebrate Kensington and Chelsea links

Kensington and Chelsea's Ukrainian community celebrated their connections to the borough at a special Together in RBKC event.

The session saw residents, representatives from community groups and hosts and guests from the Homes for Ukraine scheme come together at Kensington Town Hall for a full day of talks, activities and information sessions.

Keynote speakers Andriy Marchenko, Iryna Terlecky and Inna Hryhorovych shared their links to Kensington and Chelsea, while the Very Reverend Father Mykola Matwijiwskyj led the hall in a moment of reflection to mark the third anniversary of the start of the war.

Attendees also heard testimonials from Ukrainians who have moved to the borough since the outbreak of war as well as residents who have hosted guests through the Homes for Ukraine scheme. The programme has seen more than 900 Ukrainians matched with a sponsor from the borough since the conflict began in February 2022, with more hosts currently required.

Cllr Elizabeth Campbell, Leader of Kensington and Chelsea Council, said:

"Our borough has strong and proud links with the people of Ukraine, from the embassy and statue of St Volodymyr in Holland Park to the Ukrainian schools and groups that call Kensington and Chelsea home.

"We have been supporting Ukrainian refugees since the conflict began and Together in RBKC allowed us to show solidarity with our Ukrainian community and thank our residents who continue to open their homes to those in need.

"It was also a chance for us all to reflect on the impact of the ongoing conflict and pray for a peaceful resolution."

The Homes for Ukraine scheme enables eligible residents to offer a home to Ukrainians fleeing war. To find out more, visit our website.