On 28 September 2026, Ukrainians, their sponsors, local council representatives and community organisations came together for another Ukraine Welcome in Sutton event at the Salvation Army Church in Sutton, organised by the London Borough of Sutton (LBS). 

These regular events provide an opportunity for Ukrainians living in Sutton to meet others, ask questions, access useful information and find out more about the support and opportunities available to them. 

Supporting Sutton’s Ukrainian community 

Volunteer Centre Sutton (VCS) is proud to play an active role in these events, supporting the Ukrainian community and sharing the work of our Ukraine Support Project. 

Representing VCS was Nataliya Semchyshyn, Ukraine Project Coordinator, who joined colleagues to present the achievements of the project over the past few years. The presentation highlighted the activities delivered, the progress made and the opportunities available to Ukrainians across the borough. 

Our Ukraine Support Project offers a range of activities and support, including: 

• Ukrainian Saturday School – Ukrainian Vinok, helping children maintain their language and cultural identity. 

• Support for children and young people, including our Teen Club and mentoring. 

• Emotional support for adults, providing a safe space to access help and guidance. 

• Creative, sports and wellbeing activities, encouraging people to connect, stay active and improve their wellbeing. 

• Community events, bringing people together and helping build friendships and a sense of belonging. 

Celebrating the people behind the projects 

One of the highlights of the event was hearing directly from the leaders of our activities, who shared their experiences and spoke about the work they do. 

Behind every project are dedicated people whose enthusiasm, commitment and care make a real difference to the lives of others. Their contributions help create opportunities for Ukrainians to build connections, develop new skills and feel part of their local community. 

Building partnerships and looking ahead 

Taking part in Ukraine Welcome events is about more than sharing the work of Volunteer Centre Sutton. It also provides an opportunity to strengthen partnerships with the London Borough of Sutton and other local organisations, listen to the needs of the Ukrainian community and work together to identify ways to provide ongoing support. 

We would like to thank the London Borough of Sutton for organising the event, the Salvation Army Church for providing the venue, and all our colleagues, volunteers, partners and members of the Ukrainian community who continue to make this work possible. 

Together, we are helping to create a welcoming and supportive community where Ukrainians can access help, discover new opportunities, build meaningful connections and feel they are not alone. 

Find out more 

To find out more about the activities and support available through our Ukraine Support Project, click here.