VAO are appealing for folk to volunteer to support refugees coming to Orkney

VAO are keen to hear from others who may be able to assist in various supportive roles or anyone who has specialist skills which could be beneficial to refugees from Ukraine or Afghanistan.   

Please get in touch if you are:

• Ukrainian, Russian or Afghanistan. 
• Have lived or worked in Ukraine, Russia or Afghanistan or nearby regions. 
• Can speak Ukrainian, Russian, Dari, Pashto or similar languages. 

However, VAO would also like to hear from anyone who can offer emotional and practical support to refugees.

Volunteer Development Worker, Sam Stringer, said: “Refugees may face difficult situations when they arrive having suffered trauma as a result of their experiences, having to cope without family members and losing their income, homes and status. They may face practical difficulties, communication issues or barriers to accessing and engaging with local services. Coming to a new place can also be disorientating and confusing. 

“Volunteering offers a way to help someone feel welcome, get to know their local area, and begin to feel at home. Volunteers would support refugees by providing friendship, orientation, help with accessing services, help to develop their skills and confidence and practical help to establishing their life in Orkney.” 

If you can help, please contact Sam at VAO for more information and to register as a volunteer by emailing samantha.stringer@vaorkney.org.ukor phoning the office on 01856 872897.