Ukrainian hub in Warrington commemorates two years since opening

More than 400 refugees are now registered to the hub, based at The Daten in Culcheth, which has become a ‘cherished’ sanctuary for many whose lives have been affected by the war in Ukraine.

The hub was established shortly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine and has helped refugees settle into the communities across Warrington.

And various events have been hosted by the hub, as it runs the majority of its services from the Daten's Sunflower Community Kitchen.

Many of its members gathered on Sunday, April 21, at the hub for the celebration, while reflecting on the devastating two years that have passed since the war began in their hometowns.

The members made a cake and brought different national dishes to celebrate the anniversary (Image: Supplied)
Speaking on the anniversary, hub member, Leanne Borshik, said: “We had music and a sharing table for everyone that attended.

“This is a great Ukrainian tradition for special events and everyone attending the event brings a dish for the table, we are blessed with some excellent cooks in our community, and it has been a real delight trying different dishes from Ukraine.”

Leanne detailed how ‘proud’ the members are of the hub as it has developed and become a community based on friendship and support.

“We are extremely proud of the community we have created. With nearly 400 registered Ukrainian refugees, we have created a place where they can come together and build on friendships, receive help and advice.

“There is no job too big or small that our amazing team of volunteers will not do to help our families.”

However, the anniversary is also a stark reminder of the reason why the facility is still a necessity, as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues.

“Whilst we have this wonderful place that is cherished by so many, it is with a sad heart that we are still needed,” Leanne stated.

“We have new families arriving nearly every week from Ukraine, the situation gets worse, and our community is continually haunted by this everyday. 

The hub has more than 400 members (Image: Supplied)
“No-one expected this to carry on for such a length of time homes, cities, train stations, schools, hospitals all bombed constantly. Some of our community have no place to go back to.

“While the rest of the world looks on and thinks that's such a terrible thing, we are dealing with the families that know that young girl that died in the residential bombing, that's their hometown.

“They won't be able to greet their father at Dnipro train station anymore, it's not there now.  One family received a photo from a friend still in Ukraine and it was the rubble of their home.  

“These families need security that they have a home in the UK, with the government only allowing an extension of 18 months and families that are here settled with jobs, schools and no-where to return to they need more from the UK government.”

If you would like to volunteer at the Ukrainian Hub Warrington or would like to find out more about the community it has created visit the website ukrainehubwarrington.co.uk/