Thousands of Ukrainian Refugees Welcomed into Warwickshire
Since 2022 thousands of Ukrainian nationals are starting a new chapter in Warwickshire after being warmly welcomed into the homes of the compassionate locals
Last updated 30th May 2025
“Each family brought their own story and resilience, and it’s been a privilege to support them. We would highly recommend hosting Ukrainians to anyone in Warwickshire—whether you have space for a whole family or just one adult.” Says John and Dora Stoddard, one of the kind couples from Leamington Spa, who have opened their homes and their hearts to fleeing Ukrainian families through the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme.
Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, back in 2022, thousands of Ukrainian refugees have fled their homes in hopes of safety and its in Warwickshire, where the kindness and generosity of the local people has helped spur a now thriving Ukrainian community. Thanks to the generosity of people like John and Dora, Warwickshire has supported over 950 hosting relationships in the last three years and they are encouraging others to do the same!
John and Dora's story
John, whose own family has roots in Ukraine, said: “Dora and I have really enjoyed providing a home to all these people and helping them settle into life in our town, safe from the war in their country.”
“The first family we hosted were a married couple with three daughters who have since found their own home. The second family were a couple with a one-year-old boy who lived with us for three months before relocating to Spain. The third family was a mother and her 10-year-old son—her husband had to remain in Ukraine. They stayed with us for 11 months before moving into a council flat. Our current guests are Oleksandr and Faina, and their daughters, Angelina (10) and Evelina (4), who arrived in March.
In total over the years of conflict over 13,000 people have been killed and just over 31,000 have been injured as a result of the war. For the Ukrainian nationals who come to our country the selfless acts from people like John and Dora are life changing! John Coleman, Warwickshire County Council's Director for Children and Families said: “We are incredibly grateful to residents like John and Dora who have welcomed Ukrainian families into their homes with such compassion and generosity. Their commitment reflects the spirit of our community. As the conflict continues, we are calling on more Warwickshire residents to come forward and offer the safety and stability that so many still urgently need.”
The war in Ukraine is ongoing, and the need for safe accommodation remains urgent. Warwickshire County Council continues to appeal for new hosts to join the Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme.