A YOUTH worker who has supported Ukrainian refugees has been invited to the King’s Coronation concert in recognition of her efforts.
Helen Chatfield stepped forward to lead and coordinate the response by 12 churches in the North Hampshire Down’s to the war in Ukraine, which began in February 2022.
The churches, including in Odiham, Long Sutton, Greywell, Upton Grey and Herriard, welcomed more than 100 refugees from Ukraine, the majority of whom were families with children.
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Helen brought all the local school representatives together to facilitate the children starting at school quickly, with all the arrangements made around uniforms and free school meals.
She led the response for the area, including seeking funds from local charities and helping to organise initiatives to support the refugees.
This included a sailing adventure for the young people, cultural evenings, English language teaching and the appointment of two Ukrainian-speaking learning support assistants to go into all the schools to support the refugee children.
Helen also runs the local church youth group and is regularly invited into schools to lead assemblies, often sharing content inspired by her Ukrainian friends.
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At a recent assembly at Robert May’s School, in Odiham, Helen shared a video created by two Ukrainian girls in the youth group, comparing life before and during the war.
Helen has worked with families hosting refugees and also coordinated volunteers from the churches to help Ukrainian families with challenging administration tasks, such as applying for tax credits.
She has future plans to launch a special class tailored for older Ukrainians to build their English skills as well as organising a Ukrainian-themed Eurovision Song Contest event.
In recognition of her efforts, Helen has been invited to attend the King’s Coronation concert on Sunday, May 7, at Windsor Castle, which will be broadcast live by the BBC.
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Speaking of her work with Ukrainian refugees, Helen said: “It has been an absolute honour and privilege. I’ve seen just how amazing and resilient and kind these people are and how hard they work for each other too – because they are not relying on handouts but doing everything possible to support one another.
“Most of them have left close family members, in some cases even sons who had already just turned 18, and come to a place that is so different. Some look at their phone every morning, waiting for a message to confirm their loved ones in the trenches are safe. It’s so humbling. I’ve made friends for life.”
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