by Maryna.
When Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in 2022, my family fled to Uzhhorod, a quieter region in the western part of the country. While there, I joined the Ukrainian Red Cross and completed a training course in psychosocial support. I began running sessions for displaced children – those who had lost their homes to fighting or occupation.
It was a way to stay grounded, to support others even when my own life felt uncertain.
Later that year, my family and I arrived in the UK. In Bristol, I started visiting Ukrainian hubs, including the one at Hope Chapel. That’s where I met Joe and Chloe. Their kindness, dedication, and tireless support for Ukrainians inspired me deeply. When Joe began planning a hub for residents of a local hotel, I offered to help. I wanted to give something back – to support others in difficult circumstances, just as people had supported my family and me when we first arrived.
At first, I thought volunteering was simply about giving time. But it became so much more –
It gave me a sense of purpose, a reason to show up and connect. It reminded me that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact.
There have been many moments that stayed with me: conversations with hotel residents, playing board games, colouring, or creating bunting with flags of the countries people had come from. These moments of sharing, laughter, and quiet understanding left a mark on me.
Often, just being present was enough.
Volunteering has changed me. It has helped me see the strength people carry, even in the most challenging times. It has deepened my empathy and reminded me how vital it is to preserve our identity while rebuilding life in a new country.
I hope Britain can become a second home for the people I meet in this hotel – a place where they can heal and grow, can live safely and happily, without forgetting where they came from.
To anyone considering volunteering, I would say: you don’t need to have all the answers. Just show up with an open heart.
You may discover that by helping others, you begin to heal parts of yourself too.
If I had to sum up my experience with Bridges in three words, they would be:
Connection. Purpose. Hope.
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The Welcome Hub is a Good Faith Partnership initiative, originally designed to welcome those arriving from Ukraine, but have been expanded to welcome others from different countries.