Brownlow Community Hub in Craigavon opened today, Wednesday 13 April, as one of four new regional centres offering assistance to Ukrainian refugees as they arrive in Northern Ireland. The centre, facilitated by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, will be open on a weekly basis every Wednesday from 9.30am – 4.00pm, offering those attending access to advice and information on key services including; legal, health, education, jobs, benefits, housing and immigration.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Alderman Glenn Barr said:
“We have all witnessed the devastating impact of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the unfolding humanitarian crisis, as more and more people are forced to flee their homes. The suffering of the Ukrainian people is something that requires an urgent and collective response through multi-agency partners working together across Northern Ireland to help these people in their time of great need.
“I am delighted that our borough is now in a position to offer information, advice and support in Brownlow Community Hub, as it opens its doors as one of four Ukrainian Assistance Centres in Northern Ireland. This centre will help these displaced people and families integrate within our local community, and experience the warmth of support that exists for Ukraine across this borough”.
The opening of this centre is part of a multi-agency response co-ordinated by The Executive Office, working in partnership with other statutory agencies and charity organisations to provide assistance across Northern Ireland. Partners include the Law Centre, Department for Communities, Flex Language Services, Red Cross, Education Authority, Northern Ireland Housing Association, Southern Health and Social Care Trust, PSNI and Bryson.
Oleg Shenkaruk, Chair of Ukrainians in Northern Ireland Community group said:
“The response from the people of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon borough to the crisis in Ukraine has been amazing. The level of support and generosity from everyone has filled me with great pride, as it demonstrates the kindness and community spirit that exists in this borough. People are doing so much to assist from donating food, clothes and equipment, to now putting the proper support systems in place to enable those coming here to feel welcome, supported and at home in their new environment – during a very difficult time”.
Arrangements for the assistance centres will be kept under review in response to the demand for services, and those attending will need to bring ID and proof of the scheme under which they are registered. Further information is available in relation to the Ukraine Assistance Centres and the Homes for Ukraine Scheme on the Council website: www.armaghbanbridgecraigavon.gov.uk/UkraineSupport
