As war continues to upend lives in Ukraine, Bath’s residents have opened their doors—and their hearts—to those fleeing devastation, forging a bond that transcends borders.
Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath, was joined by Luke Pollard, Minister for the Armed Forces, in thanking Bath residents for hosting Ukrainian families following Russia’s invasion in 2022.
The city’s MP highlighted the solidarity between Bath and the city of Oleksandriya in the House of Commons on Monday, January 6.
In 2023, Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES) Council entered into a Friendship Agreement with Oleksandriya City Council to provide medical support and to strengthen cultural and community ties between the cities.
Many people in Bath have also opened their homes to Ukrainian families after B&NES Council adopted the national Homes for Ukraine scheme. As a result of the hospitality and compassion shown by local residents, over 350 Ukrainian guests have found hosts in Bath and North East Somerset through the scheme.
The Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard, thanked Wera Hobhouse for her advocacy before thanking the people of Bath for opening their homes to many Ukrainian families. Mrs Hobhouse also pressed the Minister to ensure that the incoming US government were made aware of the enduring and deep solidarity that the British public felt towards the people of Ukraine. He insisted that the UK would continue its support for Ukraine to protect their sovereignty and freedom.
Wera Hobhouse, Liberal Democrat MP for Bath, said: “I’m very proud that as a city, we have always stood by Ukraine. Whether it is through our Friendship Agreement with the city of Oleksandriya or by opening homes to Ukrainian families, Bath never fails to show unwavering solidarity with Ukraine.
“I’m glad that the Minister for the Armed Forces recognises these strong ties, but the incoming US government raises fresh concerns about Ukraine’s security. I will keep pressing our government to make clear our support for the Ukrainian people in their fight to defeat such a brutal aggressor.”