The Reading Ukrainian Community Centre has been open to those seeking advice on refugee support.
Representatives from the Home Office attended the centre to provide guidance on how to help with Ukraine’s refugee crisis on Monday, April 4, and Friday, April 8.
Dedicated outreach teams have been sent by the Home Office to give face-to-face support with various aspects of immigration issues faced by refugees and those willing to help them, offering visa and safety advice.
Anna Janusz-Kent, the centre’s former treasurer, said that the visits had proved useful for those who’d attended.
“Because it’s such a fast-moving situation, it’s very useful to speak to someone face to face,
“So the information is changing, but they have the most up to date information.”
In the last week, the centre has also been visited by councillors, and the High Sheriff of Berkshire, Willie Hartley Russell.
“We also had members of Reading Borough Council and Wokingham Borough Council, who were able to provide information and education about benefits, and let us know how they’re going to help.”
Tony Gresko, the RUCC’s chair, said that the High Sheriff was looking to find out how he could help too.
“He’s got a lot of contacts, so he was collecting information to see what he could do, and he’s really lovely.”
The Home Office has extended the offer of further similar drop-in sessions, which Ms Janusz-Kent said the centre would very much consider.
“Things are evolving– people are asking different questions today than they were last week,
“So if they were to come again, we’d be at a different stage, but everyone we’ve spoken to has been very happy.
“They’re not case-workers, but they are able to provide up-to-date information, and have access to records which can give useful updates.”
The RUCC says, however, that it would like some clearer information regarding the amount of refugees who could be rehomed in Reading.
“There could potentially be thousands, and we’re not set up for that,
“It would really benefit us to know even roughly how many so that we can in some way prepare.”
