A group of refugees are determined to give back to the people of Redditch for their hospitality following Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.

At a meeting with MP Rachel Maclean, the group asked how they could contribute more to life in the UK as well as about the work the government is doing to support Ukrainian refugees who have relocated.

Describing the town as a "temporary home", refugees also thanked UK citizens for taking them in and teaching them traditions and the language. 

Ukrainian refugee, Tetiana Politova, said: “Redditch you are our temporary home now. England and Ukraine have been together since the first days of the war.

“A beautiful little oasis in the midst of huge cities. So cosy, peaceful and green, a lovely little town. Safe, quiet and peaceful and that’s so important to all of us.

“Thank you, England, for helping up to live, to create and to love. We learn the culture, the traditions, the language and the places.”

MP Rachel Maclean added: “We should all be proud that many Ukrainian refugees now call Redditch home. Thank you to the many residents who have welcomed Ukrainians into their homes. Your selfless actions will never be forgotten.

“It was lovely to meet with them recently and to hear about how they’re contributing to life in the UK and how they want to contribute even more.

“Despite everything they have been through since the beginning of the war, leaving their homes and now living in the UK, they have all shown remarkable resilience.”