Strengthening the Ukrainian Community in Dundee, Winter 2022/2023
Ukrainians Together initiative started in Scotland in the fall of 2022, with a vision to turn the challenges of war displacement of Ukrainian families into resilience-building opportunities.
In the wake of over 26,000 Ukrainian refugees arriving in Scotland through the Homes for Ukraine Scheme, a unique set of challenges emerged, rooted deeply in emotional stress, basic needs access, social isolation, cultural and language barriers.
Refugees found themselves navigating an unprecedented situation without prior experience in managing the complexities of emotions, uncertainty, and financial instability. The urgent need for a roadmap to regain control over their lives and for constructive engagement with their new community became evident.
Leveraging our extensive experience in working with people and conflict resolution, both through legal avenues and alternative dispute mechanisms, together with The Circle CIC we formulated the Ukrainians Together programme called “Hidden Talents”. We aimed to address the immediate well-being and social needs of the Ukrainian refugees, tailoring courses that had already proven their worth in Ukraine before the war. The initiative focused on delivering:
- Educational sessions bridging Ukrainian refugees and Scottish communities.
- A comprehensive toolkit for recognizing and managing emotions, and fostering peaceful communication.
- Opportunities for socializing and integration of Ukrainian refugees.
- A space for meaningful interaction between Ukrainian and Scottish community members.
Powerful stories of our participants:
The Ukrainians Together initiative was started to guide a group of 30 participants on a transformative journey, from isolation to community, uncertainty to clarity, and silence to sharing. Through our educational programme, we’ve witnessed remarkable journeys of growth and connection, exemplified by the stories of Valentina, Galina, Denis and Marina, and Olga.
Valentina arrived in Scotland feeling stressed from the displacement and isolated in a new country. Through her active participation in the programme, she found not just acquaintances but deeper connections, creating a support network and new opportunities. Valentina entered Dundee and Angus College to improve her English and confirm her qualification as an accountant.
Galina faced the daunting challenge of not knowing where to start in rebuilding her life in a new country. Our sessions provided her with the tools for conflict resolution and empowered her to navigate her new environment with confidence and purpose. We put in touch with Galina a gardening business that employed her as a florist. Galina is also leading a Ukrainian choir “Berehinya”.
Denis and Marina came to us with a desire to contribute to their new community but were hindered by language barriers and cultural differences. Our programme supported their communication skills and volunteering initiatives. They actively engaged with The Circle volunteering programme and soon they found a work in local business. Being proactive helped them develop new networks.
Olga fled from occupied and heavily bombed Mariupol and felt the stress of displacement. Initially, she found it difficult to communicate her fears and hopes because there was no home she could return to. In a safe space and engaging in our workshops focused on non-violent communication, Olga became more open, sharing her story and became more optimistic. She successfully enrolled in an academic-at-risk programme, continues her remote work for university and has an active social life.
Each of these participants and others embarked on a journey with us, from standing on the periphery of their new journey to becoming integral members of their community, actively contributing to and enriching the fabric of their new home. Their stories are a testament to the power of education, empathy, and shared experiences in creating a cohesive and vibrant community.
We express our gratitude for the assistance and support of The Circle CIC, Dundee Volunteer and Voluntary Action, Dundee Social Enterprise Network and provided funding by the Communities Mental Health and Well-Being Fund.
Read more about the project at www.ukrainianstogether.uk