How YOU can support Ukraine

In times of war and conflict, we can feel overwhelmed and powerless to the injustice unfolding around us. At the heart of Raleigh International there has always been a community of active citizens who are determined to affect real and positive change. So although we may feel helpless as war continues in Ukraine, we know as a global community we still have the power to help.

In the face of war, these are a few of the things you can do to support Ukraine.

DONATE MONEY

A range of charities and humanitarian organisations are taking action to support those affected by the conflict. These are just a few which have launched financial appeals:

• The DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal will support those who have fled their homes to escape conflict in Ukraine. The UK Government will match pound-for-pound the first £20 million donated by the public to this appeal.
• The British Red Cross emergency appeal to help teams respond to severe water shortages following damage to several water stations and pipelines during the invasion.
• UNICEF Appeal is focused on delivery of critical supplies to children and their families. ​These include blankets, warm clothes, hygiene and health kits.
• Global Giving’s Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund seeks donations to help provide shelter, food, and clean water for refugees, health support and access to education.
• International Committee of the Red Cross is fundraising for its teams to repair vital infrastructure, support health facilities with medicines and equipment, and support families with food and hygiene items.
• Ukrainian organisation Voices of Children provides psychological care to children dealing with the trauma of war and operates in villages and towns along the frontline in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.
• Save the Children is helping to provide aid to children and their families – including hygiene kits, access to safe education, grants for families to pay for food and medicine.
• OutRight Action International is helping support LGBTQ+ individuals and groups in Ukraine. Many fear that human rights against the LGBTQIA+ community will occur if Russia takes control of Ukraine.

DONATE CLOTHES AND BLANKETS

The UN estimates there are now at least 160,000 people in Ukraine who have fled the war and are displaced within their own country. The EU believes that figure could climb to seven million, and that 18 million Ukrainians will be affected by the war.

Many people will need clothes, blankets and other essential items. Donation centres have opened across the country. Here are just a few donation spots across the UK, but with many more popping up across the country, make sure to check your local media outlets to find the donation centre closest to you.

Please check with your local donation hub before you turn up with supplies, as some donation centres are currently overwhelmed and may not be accepting any new donations.

WRITE TO YOUR MP

Write to your MP to demand safe passage for refugees fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. Many countries have the means and power to support the countless people displaced by the war, but to do this they must change their policies. If you live in the UK, discover your MP and their contact details to demand better refugee support.

You can also voice your support for refugees to parliament by signing this petition.

ATTEND A MARCH OR DEMONSTRATION

Since the invasion began in Ukraine, thousands have taken to the streets to voice their outrage. It is likely that marches and demonstrations will continue over the coming days and weeks. If you want to peacefully speak out and show your support for Ukraine, find a demonstration near you to attend. The Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain is sharing demonstrations and shows of solidarity around the UK via its Facebook page, as is the Ukrainian Solidarity Campaign. Stop the War Coalition.

Before heading out for protests, make sure that you are aware of your rights as a protester.