Mayor of Preston's Appeal for Ukraine

The tragic scenes in Ukraine this past week have made many Prestonians look for ways they can personally help.

We support Ukraine as a sovereign, self-governing state and want to reassure Ukrainian nationals and those of Ukrainian descent of our ongoing support.

Our thoughts are with all those affected by conflict in Ukraine and hope that the situation will be peacefully resolved as soon as possible.

How you can help

Donate money

Major charities are working to support Ukrainian people.

If you wish to donate money to support those efforts, please consider the appeals made by:

• UNICEF
• The Red Cross
• Save the Children
• International Rescue Committee
• Caritas Ukraine
• World Jewish Relief
• Disasters Emergency Committee

Keep up to date with travel news and immigration guidance.

• GOV.UK Foreign travel advice for Ukraine
• GOV.UK Guidance - Ukrainian nationals on family routes: concession to the Immigration Rules

Donate items

If you are donating to local collection points please check in advance what they actually need.

There are a number of local charities, schools and community groups collecting in the area, this will help to make sure you are donating the right items, and that the organisation has arrangements to transport the items to where they are needed.

Kalisz campaign

The Mayor of Preston has been formally approached for support by our Polish twin city Kalisz urgently providing finance and supplies to the Ukrainian city Kamieniec Podolski. With a longstanding relationship between Kamieniec Podolski and Kalisz, the Ukrainian city has issued a list of vital supplies to their Polish partner that Preston has been asked to support in any way we can.

In order to meet the urgent need for these items, on behalf of Mayor of Preston, Preston City Council is hosting a donation page on their website that will allow residents, communities and businesses to donate funds that will be transferred directly to Polish Red Cross for the purchase and transfer of the necessary medical and other supplies to Ukraine.

Make a Donation

Mayor of Preston, Councillor Javed Iqbal said,

"Many of us are watching what is happening in Ukraine with great sadness, and I know there is a growing desire across all of our communities to help in some way.

While there are a number of great causes and organisations that are either raising money or collecting donations for Ukrainians, it is my honour to share the personal request from the Mayor of Kalisz, our twin city, to help him help both refugees and, for as long as they are able, directly transport supplies across the border. 

On his behalf, I ask that those who are able to support this worthy and urgent cause to give generously - and remind you that when we work together, every pound adds up to make a real difference."