UKRAINE RESOURCES
Since the invasion of Ukraine on 24th February, we have been working with other charities and support partners providing information to help with the strategic work of protection of vulnerable people fleeing the war. Trafficking has become a known and widespread threat and refugees are at risk at all stages in their journey. We have put together some information that might help you to be part of the work to offer safety and restoration to those making the journey across Europe.
EUROPEAN FREEDOM NETWORK
This charity has been working for the last 10 years to unite and co-ordinate the work of anti trafficking charities across Europe and have been highly influential in supporting the response of charities, churches and individuals in European countries bordering Ukraine. The site has downloadable leaflets and tips translated into relevant languages
https://www.europeanfreedomnetwork.org/ukraine/
You will find resources for refugees, churches and organisations seeking to take resources and offer transport at the borders.
THE RED CROSS
This website has a wealth of information for anyone wanting to help including information on the visa registration in the UK. It is the go-to website for resources for refugees and hosts with information translated into Russian and Ukranian.
https://www.redcross.org.uk/get-help/get-help-as-a-refugee/help-for-refugees-from-ukraine
THE SANCTARY FOUNDATION
Help and advice with hosting Ukrainian families in the UK
https://www.sanctuaryfoundation.org.uk
TRAUMA RECOVERY
The hosting of refugees will require the support of traumatised people. This document from the European Freedom Network gives links to valuable information
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1aSPyNZfDKHolAmKMcPr1eLGnKl5_hu5B0wWvTanyWjo/edit#gid=0
We also recommend the book Trauma and Recovery by Judith Herman
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Trauma-Recovery-Aftermath-Violence-Political/dp/0465061710
In (very) brief it is important to remember the following:
People react in very different ways to traumatic experience: Fight, Flight, Freeze, Flop or be-Friend. They may be aggressive, may hide away, be unable to make decisions or be overly compliant. In befriending they may co-operate with their tormentor in an effort to survive the ordeal. Some may seem to be unaffected by their experiences- this is no ‘normal’.
In recovery, the most important factor is SAFETY. Traumatised people need a safe environment and reassurance that they are safe.
People that have had their choices taken from them (for example trafficking survivors and refugees) need to have their efficacy rebuilt and reassured. Offering small choices (tea or coffee, lights on or off etc) can start to restore a sense of purpose.
Listening to a traumatised person is important, we don’t need to give them quick solutions or cheery slogans, just to listen and to validate their experiences. Sometimes just sitting in silence with someone that is grieving can be the most powerful therapy.
You will need a support group around you as well- don’t go it alone.
This 90 minute webinar from European Freedom Network has some great advice for trauma first aid
YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
It is likely that there is help in your local area through charities, church groups, your local council or specialist branches in the police force.