A sum of £20,000 is to be donated from Derbyshire County Council's Chairman's Fund to support people fleeing the conflict in Ukraine.

The donation has been agreed by council Civic Chairman Councillor Jean Wharmby and will be made to the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) Ukraine Appeal, which is funding a range of support with its partners, including providing refugees and displaced people with food, water, blankets, hygiene items and medical help.

The decision to make the donation follows an announcement by council leader Councillor Barry Lewis, who said the county stood ready to help and support the people of Ukraine and would warmly welcome its citizens to Derbyshire.

At least three million Ukrainians have to date fled their country to seek safety across western Europe as the conflict continues, with reports of citizens being killed either in their towns, cities or while attempting to leave the country.

Derbyshire is practiced in offering support to refugees, having previously co-ordinated a response to calls from government to house Afghan refugees, working with borough and district councils - including in High Peak - to offer support and source suitable accommodation.

Councillor Wharmby said: “The images we are seeing coming out of Ukraine on an hourly basis are shocking and distressing and we can only imagine how terrifying it is for the people who are fleeing, leaving loved ones, belongings and jobs, and facing an uncertain future.

“Our donation from the Chairman’s Fund to the Disasters Emergency Committee is our way of showing now that we are here to support the people of Ukraine and stand with them during this devastating and anxious time.”

Councillor Lewis said: “We will work with government and our partners across Derbyshire to help and support Ukrainian refugees in any way we can, ensuring they are offered safe sanctuary for as long as it is needed. It is important to us as a council to be able to give this donation on behalf of the people of Derbyshire to show our support.”

People can donate directly to the DEC via its website www.dec.org.uk/appeal/ukraine-humanitarian-appeal

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