Camden Faith Leaders’ Forum – Statement on Ukraine

Camden is a borough of diversity, a borough that extends a warm welcome, and a borough that pulls together to support those in need.  

We have a long history of providing sanctuary to people fleeing conflict from across the world. In the last century we welcomed Jewish refugees fleeing Nazis and pogroms, Somalis seeking refuge and Kosovans and others escaping conflict in the Balkans. In more recent times we have welcomed refugees from Syria, Afghanistan and now we are preparing to welcome refugees from Ukraine.

Over 3 million people have fled Ukraine since 24th February 2022 and a further 2 million have been displaced within the country. The European Union estimates that the total number of refugees could climb to 7 million and the UN's High Commission for Refugees estimates that 12 million people inside Ukraine will need assistance.

Camden’s faith and community organisations continue to respond to the humanitarian call to action, building on the strength of our civil society and communities, offering shelter and in-kind support, donating to humanitarian efforts and supporting Camden’s local resettlement response.

If you are able to, we would encourage you to:

• Register with Homes for Ukraine - Homes for Ukraine – Homes for Ukraine – Local Sponsorship Scheme for Ukraine (campaign.gov.uk) as an individual or as an organisation
• Donate to international humanitarian efforts – such as Home | Disasters Emergency Committee (dec.org.uk)
• Donate to local appeals to support Ukrainian nationals resettled in Camden. Camden Giving has set up this local appeal - Equality Fund for Refugees — Camden Giving
• Donate the specific medical or humanitarian items needed in Ukraine to one of the collection sites established across London
• Grow your Ukrainian and Russian language skills to support the welcome teams greeting Ukrainian nationals at the arrival points, by registering your interest at Help support new arrivals from Ukraine (timetospare.com). 

Phil Rosenberg

Co-Chair of Camden Faith Leaders’ Forum