Ukrainian refugees in Ramsgate, UK

A woman and a man in Salvation Army uniform hold a Ukrainian flag and a map of the region

Since the start of the war in Ukraine in February 2022, six million Ukrainians have been forced to flee overseas as refugees. The Salvation Army in Ramsgate, UK, supports Ukrainian refugees through addressing their emotional, social and practical needs. This helps refugees to recover from trauma, reconnect with their heritage and build fulfilling lives in a new community.

English classes equip refugees with essential language skills and help them build relationships with the local community, enhancing their confidence and easing daily life challenges. A club for teenagers enables young people to meet with their peers, speak in their language and form friendships, helping to prevent isolation. In a similar vein, meetings are held for older people to connect with each other.

Training opportunities, such as gaining barista skills, helps refugees gain self-esteem, work experience and a sense of purpose, paving the way for independence and financial stability. Volunteering opportunities are also available within The Salvation Army. By helping others, refugees find new meaning in their lives and contribute to the local community.

Community singing, traditional celebrations and shared meals bring people together, strengthening cultural identity and providing comfort through familiar traditions. A Ukrainian school helps children maintain their language, heritage and cultural identity, fostering emotional stability and pride.

Through spiritual support and church services, refugees stay connected to their faith and find comfort, particularly in times of crisis.

Nadiia's story

I arrived in the UK under the Homes for Ukraine scheme in May 2022 and, like many others, faced serious challenges – including host harassment and emotional distress. At that time, The Salvation Army in Ramsgate found and approached us, offering help without being asked.

This first contact became the beginning of something much bigger. Feeling how vital it is to have safety and support, we began community work in Thanet, supporting Ukrainians. It started with small volunteer-led initiatives and gradually grew into large projects – community events, peer support groups, a Ukrainian school, choir and more. The Salvation Army was there at every step, supporting and encouraging this development.

Eventually, the impact of our work became so strong that The Salvation Army created a full-time position to sustain it. I have just passed my interview and will soon start working as a Ukraine Project Coordinator and Translator in Ramsgate. I didn’t just rebuild my life – I found a meaningful career.

Two women discuss support at a desk with a laptop and information leaflets

The Salvation Army supported me emotionally and practically – with guidance, encouragement and most importantly, trust. They believed in my ideas, empowered me to act, and helped connect me with the resources and people needed to bring those ideas to life. I was also given opportunities to lead community initiatives, which helped me grow both professionally and personally.

This support gave me not only strength and stability, but also a renewed sense of purpose. I went from being a person in need to someone able to support others. Today, I lead Ukrainian community activities, assist vulnerable people and I am beginning a new chapter as part of The Salvation Army team. It transformed my life.

Once again, I want to thank The Salvation Army for being part of my journey. I feel honoured to now become part of your team and to support others the way I was once supported.