Blue and yellow flags were in abundance as 85 Ukrainian guests and their hosts attended East Hampshire District Council’s first Ukraine support drop-in session at the Alton Maltings Centre.

On hand at the event on May 16 were many organisations and local partners which provide support for Ukrainian women and children living in the district, and their hosts.

Advice and information were available from Citizens Advice, Community First, British Red Cross, A31 Primary Care Network, Hampshire County Council children’s services, Hampshire Library Service, NHS Healthier You, Hampshire Achieves, EMTAS, Christians Against Poverty and Everyone Active.

Tracey Wood, director of community development and engagement at East Hampshire District Council, said: “It was great to see such a good turnout at the event.

“There is a lot of support out there for Ukrainian guests and for the hosts who have kindly opened their homes to them. The key thing is knowing what’s available.

“While the war in Ukraine continues, we’ll do all we can to support Ukrainians fleeing the conflict.”

A second drop-in event will take place from 4pm until 7pm on Tuesday, June 6 at the Festival Hall in Petersfield.

There is no need to book a place at the event – people can just turn up at any time.

East Hampshire has welcomed more than 400 Ukrainians from a total of 190 families to the district, which is the third-highest figure among districts and boroughs in Hampshire.

Anyone who is able to welcome a Ukrainian family or individual into their home is invited to visit the East Hampshire District Council website to find out more and complete an expression of interest form. Hosts recruited through the Homes for Ukraine scheme will receive £500 per month from Hampshire County Council.