Support for Ukrainians Rebuilding Lives in Somerset

Ukrainians experiencing hardship, many of whom describe the separation from their families as “unbearable,” are receiving assistance to reconstruct their lives. The organization Welcome Hubs provides English language instruction and has aided some of the 1,200 Ukrainian refugees who arrived in Somerset in securing employment since the Russian invasion of their country in February 2022. Kateryna Titova, originally from Kyiv and now living in Taunton, shared: “I can’t sleep properly through the night. It’s an unbearable situation.” She indicated that her life has been enhanced by consistent painting and the staging of exhibitions, which were arranged by the hub. The former drama teacher’s mother and brother stayed in Ukraine. “It’s very hard,” she commented. “When I think about it, it feels like a panic attack.” Ms. Titova mentioned that her host family and the Taunton community have been “very welcoming” since her arrival. At the hub, which is managed by the refugee charity CHARIS and receives backing from Somerset Council, she is enrolled in an intermediate English language course to enhance her proficiency – an opportunity for which she expressed she will “always be grateful.” She further stated, “It’s very hard to express myself because of my language. Now I’m an artist it’s good – I can express myself without words.” Separately, Igor Gorbatenko departed Kharkiv and undertook a two-month journey to the UK, eventually settling in Taunton. The former theatre director has also received assistance from the hub, where he participates in English lessons. This avid historian and performer has since obtained a voluntary position at Somerset Museum, an achievement facilitated by the hub’s personnel. Mr. Gorbatenko expressed, “I am very happy. I have very good co-workers and they’re very friendly.” Alex Melbourne, the programme manager for the hub, indicated that the charity’s objective is to supply “whatever” individuals require. Mr. Melbourne described it as “wonderful” to observe Ms. Titova and Mr. Gorbatenko establish themselves in Taunton. He added, “People have opened their hearts all across Somerset to Ukrainians to provide them a home and a little bit of stability while they try and pick up the pieces of their lives and carry on.” Official government data indicates that approximately 180,000 Ukrainian refugees have relocated to the UK through the Homes for Ukraine scheme, which was initiated following the Russian invasion of their country in February 2022.