Chiltern Welcomes

Vasyl & Hanna’s Story

Ukraine

Despite being forced to flee their home, they have found new friends and discovered that kindness and support can help to overcome any challenges, no matter how old they are.

Before the war, Vasyl (75) and Hanna (68) had a peaceful retirement. They spent time with their granddaughter, meeting friends and relatives and tended to their allotment. They also liked to go mushroom and berry picking in the woods. Their holidays were spent at the Black sea or in the Carpathian mountains.

After the war started in February 2022 and Kyiv was attacked at night, they hastily abandoned their home with a minimum of belongings and moved to the west of Ukraine. At that time they hoped that the nightmare would pass in 2-3 weeks. They didn't want to leave their homeland, but over time realised that it will not be over in a few months. They understood that being with their daughter and granddaughter and by supporting each other they will be able to get through this difficult time. They could not imagine that one day, they would have to leave their home. After a lot of hesitation, they decided to take part in the “Homes for Ukraine” programme to help ensure their safety and give their granddaughter a chance to have a childhood and continue her education.

They arrived in the UK in October 2022. They were warmly greeted by an English family who helped with administrative questions and the adaptation process. Though the UK is a very nice country with caring, compassionate people who want to help, they found being refugees very difficult. It takes a lot of effort to adapt to a country with a different language, traditions and new ways of doing things. They started to learn English and local customs. Their daughter continues to work remotely for a company based in Ukraine and is also looking for employment opportunities in the UK. Their granddaughter is attending a school in Amersham.

After being in the UK for 6 months, they were able to rent a property independently in April 2023. Their hearts ache when they hear of the awful things happening in Ukraine. They are constantly worrying about friends and family. They are grateful to the UK for giving them safety and, in particular, they are grateful to their host family who opened their home and their heart to them. They are also grateful for the support the local community and volunteers are giving them with events, trips and other activities. These opportunities help them not to feel abandoned, be able to speak their own language, share stories and support each other.