Bracknell Forest has been readying itself to welcome people arriving from Ukraine into their homes and communities.

As part of the Family Visa and Homes for Ukraine Visa schemes, many Bracknell residents and households have reached out to host individuals and families.

Bracknell council and voluntary and faith sector organisations have been working together to support both hosts and guests as they welcome them into their homes.

A community engagement meeting took place this month with local Ukrainian residents in order to share concerns and discuss support being offered to people arriving.

This also was able to give the council valuable insight into the type of support that new arrivals would need locally.

READ MORE: Indian restaurant hits back over one-star food hygeine rating

Printed information leaflets will be provided in Ukrainian, Russian and English, giving attendees access to key community contacts and information sources in their own language.

Cllr Paul Bettison OBE, Leader of Bracknell Forest Council, said:

“I really valued the opportunity to be able to speak with many local Ukrainian residents directly. Their strength and desire to help fellow Ukrainians during this difficult time is humbling and an inspiration to all residents in the borough.

“I am also heartened to see the positive response from Bracknell Forest residents as part of the Homes for Ukraine visa scheme. We are looking forward to welcoming new arrivals from Ukraine in the coming weeks and will support them as much as we can. We continue to stand with Ukraine and to all those affected.”

Instead of donating physical items, the council has suggested that residents may wish to make a financial contributions to agencies such as Disasters Emergency Committee, UNICEF or British Red Cross.