Ivanna’s story – Homes for Ukraine

Imagine having someone come to live in your home, or going to live in someone else’s. RMC were on hand in the initial stages to help set boundaries for each side. It helped make sure everyone could feel comfortable and confident with how things would be. Ivanna was a little concerned about how rigid ‘rules’ might be but commented that the tone of her hosts’ initial letter was friendly and there had been flexibility as they had established a house-share. Significantly both parties have been respectful and accommodating of each other. Veronika was affectionately described as “a little rocket fizzing round the house” bringing energy into the home. Ivanna, on the other hand, is keen to ensure that her daughter is not too clingy and demanding.

RMC recognises the generosity of many hosts and people in the community. Our caseworker has been on hand to support the newly arrived family, but Colin and Lucy have also played a valuable role. Within 2 weeks of arrival Veronika was able to start school. Members of the Parent Teacher Association supplied a school uniform and other necessities.

Both hosts and Natalia enthused about the progress that Ivanna has made in learning English. She is clearly motivated and has taken advantage of opportunities in the local area. North Birmingham for Ukraine provides ESOL twice a week and an English teacher gives additional informal tuition, subsidised thoughtfully by the hosts.