Hebden Royd Stands in Solidarity with Ukraine

Hebden Royd Town Council has offered its "solidarity" to the people of Ukraine in the wake of the recent Russian invasion.

The Mayor of Hebden Royd, Cllr Rob Freeth said: "I would like to take the opportunity to express our support and send sympathies to the people of Ukraine during this difficult time. The Council is united in our desire to help those displaced families who have suffered dreadful loss due to war, persecution and aggression.

In response to the Ukraine refugee crisis the Council are supporting organisations, locally and nationally, which are experienced and set up to support refugees fleeing conflict."

Financial donations have been made by the Town Council and through the Mayor's allowance to St. Augustine's Centre in Halifax who have been helping those fleeing war and persecution for over 50 years, supporting families from 57 countries.

Sara Robinson, Director of St. Augustine's said: "We stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and extend our thoughts to everyone affected by this devastating war. We reinforce our commitment to support all displaced people arriving into Calderdale, both by providing assistance locally and by calling for a fairer, kinder system nationally.

We urge people to join us on 17th March at 9am at the Piece Hall (Westgate entrance) by making a giant heart of people, photographed from above to show Calderdale's support for refugees. More info here." 

Additionally, Hebden Bridge Picture House, the UK's first Cinema of Sanctuary, owned by Hebden Royd Town Council, is joining UK Cinemas for preview charity screenings of Olga, a new film about a young female Ukrainian gymnast forced to train in exile.

The screening is on Monday 21 March at 7.45pm with all proceeds being donated to The Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC). Tickets are now on sale and available at hbph.co.uk.

The DEC brings together 15 leading UK aid charities, raising funds to quickly and effectively respond to overseas disasters. DEC Charities are in Ukraine and neighbouring countries meeting the needs of all refugees and displaced people.

Cllr Rob Freeth added: "If you are able to help and cannot attend the cinema fundraiser screening, donations can be made via the DEC website at Dec.org.uk or if you wish to make a one-off or regular donation to St. Augustine's Centre please visit the St. Augustine's Centre web page.

The Town Council will debate a motion in support of the people of Ukraine at their next meeting. Information on community appeals and further updates will be made available on the Town Council dedicated web page.

Added: Thursday, 10 March 2022

Photos from Hebden Royd