Council leader pledges support as Ukrainian flag flies over Three Rivers House

The Ukrainian flag has been raised over the headquarters of Three Rivers District Council in a display of solidarity with the war-hit country.

The flag has been flying at Three Rivers House in Rickmansworth since yesterday (Monday). The council leader Cllr Sarah Nelmes has pledged that the district is ready to support the Ukrainian people following the invasion by Russian forces.

Cllr Nelmes said: “Flying the flag over our council building is an important symbolic move to show that we stand firmly with the country of Ukraine and with the millions of innocent people who are being forced to deal with the harsh and unwanted realities of war.

“As leader of the council I would like to emphasise that I will do everything possible to support any refugees fleeing this conflict who come to our district.”

The government has said tens of thousands of Ukrainian refugees will benefit from the new Homes for Ukraine refugee scheme.

Under the scheme people in the UK will be able to nominate an individual or family to stay with them rent-free, either in their own home or in another property, for at least six months.

Hosts will receive £350 a month as a "thank you" from the government. People who wish to offer a rent-free space in their home or a separate residence, for at least six months, can register their interest  online.