As soon as the government launched its new website, “Homes for Ukraine,” the diocese of Hereford signed up as a host organisation.
The Rt Revd Richard Jackson, Bishop of Hereford, explains: “Like so many, I am deeply moved by the images and stories of suffering and pain of the Ukrainian people in this war and the millions of refugees who are trudging across Western Europe seeking asylum.
“We have a long history in our diocese, welcoming refugees from many countries. So I am pleased to see the government open the scheme, Homes for Ukraine, and I wanted to ensure we lead the way as the Church of England in this part of the country.”
The Bishop, supported by several colleagues in the diocese, has identified a number of vacant properties owned by the Church of England, the details of which have already been shared with Herefordshire County Council.
In Bodenham, volunteers in the village have gathered a list of homes willing to sponsor refugees. The idea that Karilyn Collins is putting forward is to attract a group of Ukrainians from the same area who know each other and could be integrated into the community and offer one another support as they settle into life in Herefordshire.
A spokesperson for the diocese commended the Bodenham approach and confirmed it has applied to act as a sponsoring organisation and will seek to actively promote the scheme to all 400+ churches across the diocese and work to promote the scheme to individuals.
The Bishop adds: “Along with Christians around the world and other faith groups, I continue to pray daily for peace and an end to this conflict. I encourage people to give to the agencies supporting this and other global conflicts and to join us in prayer to seek peace on earth.”
Notes to Editors:
To sign up as an individual or organisation, please visit the Government website Homes of Ukraine