Ealing Ukrainian Infrastructure Support Network
Published on: 30 June 2025
In Ealing, support for displaced Ukrainians began with a network backed by the British Red Cross.
Thanks to funding from the London Borough of Ealing, the Ealing and Hounslow Community & Voluntary Service has expanded its vital work.
Did you know?
- According to the Home Office Data, 1,417 Ukrainians have arrived in Ealing on the Homes for Ukraine Scheme (as of 24th November 2024). Ealing hosts the second-largest Ukrainian refugee community in London.
- According to the most recent government data, 70% of the arriving adults under the two main Ukraine schemes were women, since Ukrainian men aged 18 to 60 are not allowed to leave Ukraine.
- National statistics indicate that despite efforts to learn English, 37% of Ukrainian refugees still find that their lack of English proficiency is limiting their employment options.
The Ealing Ukrainian Infrastructure Support Network
The Ealing Ukrainian Infrastructure Support Network has made significant strides in supporting Ukrainian refugees. The areas of support focus on employment, English language skills, and mental health and well-being support. Through partnerships with local organisations and dedicated volunteers, the project effectively addresses key needs in employment, education, mental health, and social integration.
Key activities have included:
- Employment – online and offline sessions, peer-to-peer coaching, meetings with professionals and entrepreneurs.
- English language skills – English conversational club with natives speaking volunteers.
- Mental health support – Emotional well-being sessions, including psychological support and coaching, focusing on stress, trauma recovery, and coping mechanisms for individuals displaced by the war.
- Creative well-being – Art and cultural events have provided a platform for self-expression and healing, fostering cultural exchange and integration through Ukrainian music, art, and performances.
- Community integration – Organising community-building activities to strengthen the bond between displaced Ukrainians and local residents, ensuring a more inclusive and supportive environment in Ealing.
Success stories
In 2024 alone, we have assisted over 350 Ukrainians, hosted 34 sessions, and helped more than a hundred Ukrainian households with essential casework and support.
We’ve also established the charitable organisation BRIDGE: Bringing Resources, Integration, Development, and Growth, which supports language skills, employment, and well-being for Ukrainians.
Participants have reported a significant improvement. In particular, the following impacts have been noted:
- Emotional support – The trial wellness sessions, particularly for women, have been highly valued, with positive feedback indicating a significant reduction in stress and anxiety. These sessions provide essential coping strategies and emotional support in a time of uncertainty.
- Mental health and trauma recovery – Many refugees are dealing with the psychological impacts of displacement. Our support has been vital in addressing these challenges, improving the mental well-being of participants.
- Employment and language skills – Employment and language skills remain key areas of focus, helping refugees gain economic independence and build confidence in their new environment.
The following are some quotes from participants:
These sessions made me feel welcomed, valued, and supported.
I had a fantastic opportunity to connect with other Ukrainians. Additionally, I received valuable information about employment, language learning, and volunteer registration. I also learned how to apply for additional support with housing payments and everyday expenses. These sessions made me feel welcomed, valued, and supported.
The sessions helped me to look at my strengths from a different perspective.
It boosted my confidence.
Next steps
The network is funded by Ealing Council until the end of March 2025. While the project is waiting to hear about further funding availability, the EHCVS team is working with the Ukrainian volunteers to establish a registered charity so that they can apply for other grants and ensure the sustainability of the project.
The focus of the project remains on improving employment opportunities, enhancing English language skills, and providing ongoing mental health support. These core themes are integral to the successful integration of Ukrainian refugees into the Ealing community.
As the project develops, we aim to expand our mental health services, increase job placement support, and continue our cultural and community-building efforts. One of the new initiatives is developing a peer-to-peer coaching structure to help refugees progress towards their goals of improving their English and successfully finding employment.
The team is also planning additional mental health support groups through running movie therapy sessions, a therapeutic technique that involves watching movies to help people explore their feelings and develop self-awareness.
Call to action
The Ealing Ukrainian Infrastructure Support Network is always looking for more volunteers who can use their skills to support refugees.
If you would like to support our English language practice during our Saturday sessions or share your expertise to improve the employability of our community or support their mental health by running art, craft, music or sports activities for children and adults, please do get in touch with Olga Dudnik, the Ukrainian Project Coordinator, at olga@ehcvs.org.uk.
