Help for Ukraine

 An emergency motion by the Leader of East Lothian Council, Norman Hampshire regarding the invasion of Ukraine was agreed at a special meeting of the Full Council on Tuesday 1 March 2022.

The motion, was agreed unanimously by all members and the Provost, John McMillan is to write on behalf of the people of East Lothian to:

• The Russian Ambassador in the UK asking that he requests his Government to withdraw troops from Ukraine immediately.
• To the Ukranian Ambassador in the UK, expressing the Council’s support and solidarity, and respect for his nation’s sovereignty and freedom.
• To the Prime Minister of the UK, asking that all efforts are made to welcome refugees coming from Ukraine to the UK without the need for a visa, and advise of our willingness to help in any way we can as a county to settle individuals and families whose lives have so sadly and suddenly been affected by the military action in Ukraine.

Provost McMillan said: “I know from correspondence received and conversations held that many people from across East Lothian are seeking ways to support Ukraine and its citizens. Colleagues and myself in East Lothian Council are keen to help where we can to support the already admirable and amazing aid efforts happening in our county.  I know that VCEL provides a useful point of contact for further advice.

“In awful circumstances like these, Scottish Government generally advises that funds are normally the most useful donation you can make, particularly when giving to charities with experience of operating in crisis zones. There are a number of reputable fundraising bodies such as UNICEF, the British Red Cross, the International Rescue Committee and the Disasters Emergency Committee who run fundraising appeals for crises and are able to get money to those most in need, and are mobilised in the region. There are also Scottish based Ukrainian community groups, including Edinburgh Ukrainian Club and Community of Ukrainians in Glasgow who are gathering essential supplies and considering how they can support displaced people.”

Please note - Delivering items directly to areas in crisis is expensive and could be a safety risk for the charities involved. Only donate the items that charities are asking for such as first aid supplies, clean new clothes and sanitary supplies. Dealing with unneeded items can draw volunteers away from working on activities which are most helpful to those in need.

Donate with care and research any charities that you are considering for a donation to ensure you know where and how donations will be used. You can research charities at OSCR for Scotland.