Plea for farmers to support Ukrainian refugees

Farm consultancy and land agent Brown and Co has launched an initiative to help Ukrainian refugees find jobs and accommodation in the UK.

The firm has interests in eastern Europe, with offices in Poland and Romania, and has already donated £50,000 to support refugees. But managing partner Charles Whitaker said he wanted to go further by helping to facilitate offers of jobs and housing. 

Mr Whitaker urged local businesses and clients to use a registration form on the Brown and Co website to log an interest in taking part.

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Brown and Co’s Caroline Culot said more than 20 farmers had already taken that first step with solid offers of housing and jobs. Ms Culot said the company’s role would be to help match refugees and workers through its connections in eastern Europe.

However, she urged anyone signing up to consider the level of commitment required.

“There is a huge need for accommodation and work, but it’s worth thinking about the fact that refugees are likely to be women and children.  

“In many cases schooling and transport are going to be key, along with nearby amenities.”

“Communication via web and phone will be added priorities as potentially distressed people try to keep in touch with the loved ones they have left behind,” she added.  

Generous offers

Speaking from Poland, Brown and Co’s Adam Oliver thanked farmers in the UK for their generous offers.

“Our aim is to take those offers and match them with people who are coming forward at our offices here.”  

Aside from the desperation of the individuals involved, one of the challenges being faced was the UK’s visa arrangements, which had taken time to get off the ground, Mr Oliver explained.

Confusion remains over whether that paperwork covers a permission to work or whether a separate visa will be needed, Mr Oliver said.

“We need to go through these official channels, which require the equivalent of a national insurance number for Ukrainians.”

“It’s been like wading through glue, but we are getting there and hope to help people move to the safety of the UK very soon,” he added.