Local MP Robert Largan spoke in a general debate on Ukraine last week in the House of Commons. During the debate, Mr Largan paid tribute to the efforts of local volunteer groups in welcoming Ukrainian refugees to the High Peak.
The High Peak MP mentioned Chapel-en-le-Frith Parish Council, Whaley Bridge Town Council, local charities Little Cherubs and Buxton Baby Bank, Homes for Ukraine High Peak, firefighters at Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service, and Lomas Distribution in Buxton.
Mr Largan said:
“I have been struck by the number of local people who have stepped up to offer their support in any way that they can. In particular, I thank Mike Chandler at Chapel-en-le-Frith Parish Council who, along with Whaley Bridge Town Council and others, has been leading the way in co-ordinating local efforts to reach out and support Ukrainians arriving in the UK and the households who are kindly hosting them. I also want to highlight local charities, including Little Cherubs and Buxton Baby Bank, as well as organisations such as Homes for Ukraine High Peak, the firefighters at Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service and others who have been doing such amazing work to help. We have seen many local businesses step up, too, including Lomas Distribution in Buxton, which sent a lorryload of essentials to Ukraine.”
As of 27 April, 34,900 Ukraine Family Scheme visas and 51,300 Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme visas have been issued to Ukrainian refugees nationwide.
This follows Mr Largan’s letter to the Prime Minister in February, which called on the Government to adopt a “flexible, pragmatic and compassionate” policy for Ukrainians seeking temporary refuge in the UK.
In addition, the High Peak MP spoke out against countries, like Germany, which have denied shipments of heavy weaponry to Ukraine.
Mr Largan closed his speech yesterday by raising concerns about the impact of the conflict on the life chances of Ukrainian children.
The local MP called for a more “joined-up approach across Government and local authorities” in caring for those children who arrive in the UK, and highlighted the need to identify more Ukrainian translators.
Robert Largan, MP for High Peak, commented:
“The invasion of Ukraine is a despicable act by a desperate criminal regime. How we respond now will determine the strength of our democracy and collective security for decades to come.
“I am proud of the decisive action that the UK has taken to help Ukrainians defend their freedom and their homeland.
“So far, over 70,000 visas have been issued to Ukrainians.
“It is testament to the generous spirit of the people of High Peak that I have been inundated with enquiries from constituents who are sponsoring visas for those fleeing the conflict.
“I am working as hard as I can to help resolve any applications that are still outstanding with the Home Office.
“It has never been more important that we stay united and stand up for what is right.”
