Ukrainians to get more support in Exeter as war continues
The funding enables those in the city to access opportunities and build independent lives
Exeter City Council has awarded an 18-month contract to Devon Ukrainian Association CIC to deliver a community connecting service.
Tailored support will be provided to Ukrainian residents living in Exeter, helping people settle into local communities, access opportunities and build independent lives.
The contract will run until 30 September 2027.
The Ukraine Community Connecting Service will offer person-centred support, including casework, advocacy and referrals.
Residents will also be able to access employment support, English language pathways, wellbeing services and community integration activities.
The service will work closely with Exeter City Council's Housing and Homelessness Team to help sustain tenancies and prevent homelessness.
Community initiatives and youth engagement activities will also be developed to strengthen connections between Ukrainian residents and the wider Exeter community.
Councillor Liz Pole, Lead Councillor for Climate and Ecological Change and Communities and Customer Services, said: “This is fabulous news for Ukrainian residents living in this great city.
“In Exeter we pride ourselves in being a diverse, welcoming city and I am delighted that Devon Ukrainian Association CIC will be able to continue helping Ukrainians uprooted from their homeland settle in Exeter.”
Devon Ukrainian Association has extensive experience supporting Ukrainian communities across Devon and will deliver the service from its Exeter base while working in partnership with local organisations.
The contract follows a competitive procurement process and represents continued investment in supporting people who have arrived in the city through the Homes for Ukraine programme and other resettlement routes.
The service is expected to help residents access housing, employment, education and wellbeing support while encouraging long-term community participation and independence.