West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has thanked local families who have opened their homes to people fleeing the war in Ukraine at a reception held in Worcester’s Hive Library.

And the MP also praised the Government for agreeing to extend the financial support for hosts giving hosts and their guests peace of mind.

Nearly 1,000 people have relocated from Ukraine to Worcestershire including over 400 children and High Sherriff Andrew Manning-Cox hosted an event to thank hosts last week.

Today, the Government confirmed that the £350 thank you payment being made to hosts monthly will continue and will be increased to £500 once the Ukrainian guests have been here for more than 12 months.

Harriett said:

“I am so proud of the way generous local people opened their homes to those fleeing the terrible illegal invasion of Ukraine by the tyrant Putin.

“Of course, our fondest hope is that he will be defeated allowing our guests to return home but until that is possible, I welcome the Government’s continued commitment to support families who are hosting people fleeing the war zone.

“I was keen to thank all the families who have opened their homes to people from Ukraine. They are our local heroes and I’ve heard touching testimony of the generosity that has been shown over the last year.

“The gathering at The Hive was a heartening event and I hope that hosts and guests have been able to chat and share experiences and make useful contacts as they extend their stay in Worcestershire.”

Photo: Pictured at The Hive ‘thank you’ event: Keiran Bingle, Branwen Bingle, Korbin Bingle, High Sheriff Andrew Manning-Cox with Ukraine guests Mariia Hryhorus and Anya Hryhorus and Harriett Baldwin MP.