Posted on 2nd Mar
Mansfield District Council is standing in support of Ukraine following its invasion by Russia and is lighting up its buildings in blue and yellow and flying the Ukrainian flag as symbols of solidarity.
Executive Mayor Andy Abrahams is urging people in Mansfield, which is twinned with Stryi in western Ukraine, to support humanitarian relief efforts to help those fleeing or caught in the war zone.
The blue and yellow Ukraine flag was raised at the Civic Centre yesterday. From today, the council is also lighting up the Old Town Hall in blue and yellow, and the Bentinck Memorial in yellow, as a sign of friendship, and is encouraging the owners other buildings in the district to show similar support.
Mayor Andy said: “We’re saddened and appalled by the ongoing situation in Ukraine and we want to reach out to Ukrainians who call Nottinghamshire their home, to stand by them and their community.
“Many people probably feel quite helpless as they witness the horrific events unravelling hour by hour on the TV or social media but there are ways to support families in Ukraine in their darkest hours and at this time of tremendous uncertainty.
“The pandemic showed that people in Mansfield really care and can rally support in times of need. For the people in Ukraine, this time is now. Thousands are in desperate need of humanitarian aid.”
The council is keen to promote any fund-raising or relief aid activities for Ukraine in the district and is encouraging local organisations to get in touch.
There are local collections for refugees taking place at the Old Meeting House. See https://www.
Among the items they are requesting are first aid supplies, protein bars and small packets of nut and raisins, crunchy peanut butter in plastic containers, instant soup mixes, toiletries, warm socks, fingerless mittens, thick tights (large) and nappies and baby food.
Pupils at All Saints’ Catholic Academy in Mansfield are also collecting donations for refugees. The school is asking for medical supplies, baby milk and bottles, sterilising tablets, nappies and baby wipes, sanitary products, hats, scarves and gloves, tents, back packs, sleeping bags, pillows and bedding, torches, candles and matches.
Donations can be made to various national campaigns. The British Red Cross Ukraine crisis appeal can be found at
https://donate.redcross.org.
There is another an appeal organised by the Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain. It is working with accredited and registered charities in Ukraine to provide medicines, food, and critical services. Donate at:
https://www.gofundme.com/en-
Unicef has an appeal, focusing on helping children caught up in the war, at https://www.unicef.org.uk/.
For families and teachers wanting guidance on how to discuss the war in Ukraine with children, there is advice at the Department of Education website at https://educationhub.blog.
