A number of members have asked whether we will be saying anything in respect of the current crisis in Ukraine. The intention of the NALC (on behalf of the entire parish sector) is to sign up to the LGA supported statement from the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) condemning the multiple attacks and violations of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine. It is open to signature by any Councillor. The LGA stands in support and solidarity with peers in Ukraine. You can read their statement here. We will circulate further details over the next few days. There are also donation pages that you can contribute to for the refugees. You can do so here and here.

We have taken a feather out of Frome Town Council's cap. Like many, we have been touched by the plight of the Ukrainian people. Essex's towns and parishes are twinned with European towns and our sister cities are going to be playing an ever-increasing role in the unfolding humanitarian crisis.
We urge all our councils to get in touch with their twinned towns and find out how our communities can help. An effective way to help is to raise funds. It costs £10 per day to shelter one refugee and £20 per day if you include food. Many of our twin towns will be on the frontline in Poland and other neighbouring countries, with a likely impact on Western European countries in the near future. Let's get this on the agenda.
We will provide details early next week on the powers councils can use to raise funds. Those with the General Power of Competence can start fundraising immediately. Use your social media channels, mailing lists, newsletters and websites and let's make Essex's appeal count.
- £10 will accommodate 1 person for a day
- £20 will provide food clothes and accommodation
- £140 will provide everything that a person needs for a week
To answer some of the questions about the Homes for Ukraine scheme, Essex County Council has produced the following pages on their website:
General information and updates about what you can do to help are also available on the county council website here. Further information on how you can get involved, donate and show your support is available on the Essex is United for Ukraine Facebook page here. Businesses wishing to help can find resources on the Essex Chambers of Commerce website here.
Some of the above comes to us courtesy of the Gloucestershire Association of Parish & Town Councils.

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