UKRAINIANS from Devon were invited to a reception held in Westminster to launch a new report into the experiences of those who have come to the UK.

Members of the Devon Ukraine Association at the Houses of Parliament, represented by Executive Director Olya Petrakova and trustees Steven Osbiston and Bryan Brown.

The event, attended by MPs researchers, representatives from the Ukrainian Embassy in the UK, and Ukrainian organisations from across the country, saw the launch of the University of Birmingham’s new report on the experiences and future intentions of displaced Ukrainians.

It was co-hosted by the University of Birmingham and Newton Abbot MP Martin Wrigley.

He said: ‘I was pleased and proud to share my support for our Ukrainian guests.

‘I co-hosted it with the University of Birmingham to allow Ukrainians a platform to share their experiences of living in the UK.’

Of the 218,000 Ukrainians who arrived after the 2022 invasion, almost 3,000 were surveyed.

Among their key concerns were employment, housing, education, and mental health.

The central issue is there is no route for their long-term security.

A spokesman for the Devon Ukraine Association said: ‘We also welcome the announcement of Ukrainian Voice UK, a new advocacy coalition uniting more than 80 Ukrainian organisations and a network of over 100,000 Ukrainians nationwide.

‘Together with the Stronger Together Forum of the Ukrainian Embassy, this alliance will be central in shaping a coordinated approach to restore and rebuild Ukraine, and to ensure safety, stability, and a dignified future for Ukrainians currently in the UK under the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

'The Devon Ukrainian Association intends to play a critical and active role in this national campaign, contributing our community’s voice, experience, and on-the-ground understanding to the wider collective effort.

'We are immensely thankful to MP Martin Wrigley for his unyielding support, commitment, and advocacy for Ukrainians across the UK - support that makes a genuine difference to our community.

‘This is a significant moment. We will continue to keep our community informed as the next steps unfold.’