As Refugee Week comes to a close, we wanted to take a moment to celebrate the incredible community spirit that has been on display across Rother.
Voluntary and community organisations have always played a vital role in helping people find friendship, support and a sense of belonging in life’s most challenging moments. Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, we have been proud to support local residents through our Homes for Ukraine work, helping hosts, guests, volunteers and community groups build new connections and navigate new beginnings together.
This year’s Refugee Week theme of Courage reminds us that resilient communities are built through the everyday actions of people who emanate welcome, kindness and understanding. Across Bexhill and Rother, local organisations, volunteers and residents have come together to create opportunities for people to meet, share and celebrate the rich diversity of our communities.
Over the weekend, our Homes for Ukraine Lead Susan attended a number of local Refugee Week events, including the Refugee Day event and Stitch for Change exhibition at the De La Warr Pavilion, where she spoke about the importance of community support and the role local organisations play in helping people feel connected and valued.
Speaking at the Refugee Day event, Susan reflected on the importance of community-led support:
“RVA is about community development and one thing we know is that strong communities don’t happen by accident. They happen when people consciously choose to stand beside one another, collaborate and work together. The support offered to Ukrainian refugees in Rother has shown what is possible when communities lead with compassion. Through local hosts, volunteers and community organisations people fleeing conflict have been welcomed into neighbourhoods, schools and workplaces. It is a model that is more humane, more integrated and more welcoming. Treating people not as others or otherly but as neighbours and fellow residents.” – Susan Gedge, Homes for Ukraine Lead, RVA
Susan also supported the Volya Voices Ukrainian Choir performance at Beulah Baptist Church on 14th, which started Refugee Week and was part of the Bexhill Music Festival, whose music reflected both resilience and hope. She also attended the closing event on Sunday 21st, the Mriya Festival at Manor Barn, where local residents and Ukrainian families came together to celebrate culture, creativity and community.
There was a full week of diverse events, which would not be possible without the dedication of local volunteers, community groups and partners, namely the Refugee Buddy Project and everyone who has contributed their time, energy and compassion to supporting people rebuilding their lives in our area.
Refugee Week is not only a chance to recognise the experiences of people who have sought safety and sanctuary. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the people, organisations and volunteers who make welcome possible, reminding us that stronger communities are created through connection, collaboration and care.
