More than 200 guests attend Ukrainian welcome evening at the School

Tonbridge hosted a welcome evening for Ukrainian families and their hosts on Tuesday (17 May).

More than 200 people attended the event, which took place in the Library Gardens and gave Ukrainian guests the chance to meet others living locally. It also allowed hosts and guests to speak to local agencies, charities and various other key contacts.

The event was held in partnership with Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council and Tonbridge Welcomes Refugees. Those attending included representatives from Citizens Advice, Kent Police, the Department of Work and Pensions and the office of Tom Tugendhat MP, and all were on hand throughout the evening to offer advice and answer questions.

James Priory, Tonbridge’s Headmaster, and Gill Fox, Partnerships Manager for Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, welcomed visitors (as pictured, above and below) and explained that this was a chance to start conversations about how the community can support Ukrainian families and their hosts.

Guests enjoyed food and refreshments in the sunny gardens while younger family members took part in arts and crafts, football and frisbee. These activities were hosted by students from Tonbridge School, Weald of Kent Grammar and Walthamstow Hall.

Kat Portman-Smith, the School’s Director of Community Engagement, said: “The evening was welcomed by all involved and we were delighted to be so well supported by local agencies. This was an opportunity to open a dialogue between all parties and we look forward to strengthening these relationships over the coming months, in a true spirit of co-operation and friendship.”