The achievement was highlighted at today’s (24 July) meeting of Herefordshire Council, where councillors also supported a motion reaffirming the county's commitment to standing with Ukraine and exploring opportunities to strengthen future links with the Zhytomyr region.

More than 1,000 Ukrainians have now found safety, support and a warm welcome in Herefordshire since the launch of the scheme. The milestone reflects the generosity of local residents who have opened their homes to those forced to flee conflict, as well as the extensive support network that has helped people settle into communities across the county.

Herefordshire Council's Refugee Resettlement and Migration Support team has played a leading role in coordinating support for Ukrainian families, working alongside HVOSS, local organisations, community groups, parish councils, volunteers and hosts. Together they have helped people access accommodation, education, employment, healthcare and community connections, enabling many families to rebuild their lives in Herefordshire.

The county's response has been recognised as an outstanding example of partnership working, with communities, voluntary organisations and public services coming together to provide practical help, friendship and long-term support.

The Council motion, brought forward by Cllr Ed O’Driscoll, acknowledged the strong foundations already established through four years of support for Ukraine and reaffirmed Herefordshire's commitment to maintaining and developing those relationships in the future.

Councillor Jonathan Lester, Leader of Herefordshire Council said:

"Welcoming more than 1,000 Ukrainians to Herefordshire is a remarkable achievement and one that our entire county can be proud of.

"This milestone reflects the compassion and generosity of local people, but it is also a testament to the dedication of civil society organisations, volunteers, community groups and councils across the county. I would also like to thank our Refugee Resettlement and Migration Support team for their efforts in helping to achieve this important milestone. 

"Behind this figure are hundreds of stories of resilience, kindness and friendship. By opening their homes and communities, Herefordshire residents have helped people rebuild their lives after fleeing the horrors of war.

"The motion agreed by council today reaffirms our commitment to standing alongside Ukraine and recognises the strong relationships that have already been built between our communities. I am very grateful to Cllr Ed O’Driscoll, member for Ross East ward, for bringing this important motion forward. We will now carefully consider how best to take forward the requirements of the motion and the opportunities it presents to strengthen those relationships in the future."

Find out more about Herefordshire Council's Support for Ukraine on the website.