'DOZENS' of people in Furness are prepared to take in refugees from Ukraine. 

A scheme to house refugees fleeing the conflict has attracted sign-ups from more than 100,000 across the country.

And people in Furness are also keen to support those escaping Russian military action, MP Simon Fell has said.

He revealed he had been contacted by several householders in his constituency willing to play their part.

He said: "I warmly welcome this scheme.

"Dozens of people have been in touch with me who want to help in exactly this way and now the route for them to do so is available.

"It's testament to the immense generosity of Furness folk that they have made that offer.

"Taking someone into your home is a big decision and I'm sure many families will be having conversations over the dinner table tonight over whether it is right for them to do so.

"People can also support in numerous other ways - not least by making a donation through the Disasters Emergency Committee - www.dec.org.uk."

The Homes for Ukraine scheme will allow individuals, charities, community groups and businesses in the UK to bring Ukrainians to safety – including those with no family ties to the UK.

Phase one of the scheme will allow sponsors in the UK to nominate a named Ukrainian or a named Ukrainian family to stay with them in their home or in a separate property.

 

'It's critical'

 

The Mail:

One Barrovian who has signed up to the scheme is councillor Therese Assouad, who is offering a spare room in her house. 

She said her willingness to take in refugees was a 'gut reaction' to seeing the scenes from Ukraine on the news.

"I felt so sad and I happen to live in a biggish house," she said.

"Even if it's not a palace at least it's warm and dry."

Urging others to consider doing the same, she said: "From a humantarian point of view it's critical.

"I would say if people have a bit of space to give it some consideration to think they wouldn't be doing it on their own - other support from the community will be available."

Cllr Assouad is now waiting to hear back on the next steps in the process.

Anyone who wants to take in a refugee from Ukraine can visit homesforukraine.campaign.gov.uk/