Fife Council's co-leaders says it will prepare for any refuge scheme to help Ukrainians

The co-leaders of Fife Council say it will prepare for and support any future scheme to help people from Ukraine seeking refuge.

It comes as both the Ukrainian and Russian delegates are meeting today for peace talks, according to Sky News.

Fighting is continuing for a fifth day.

Both David Alexander and David Ross have said in a statement: "Our thoughts are with all those who are affected by this crisis.

"There are a number of national fundraising efforts underway through the Red Cross and other charities, and here in Fife people are already giving generously to local charity efforts.

"We will work together with partners in Fife Voluntary Action to help co-ordinate the local community response and the generosity shown by Fifers. 

"We will also prepare for and support any future scheme to help provide refuge and sanctuary for Ukrainian people who have fled their homes during this crisis.

"We are committed to helping in any way we can. 

"Fife has a local connection with Ukraine as Newport is twinned with Zolotarevo in the country and we will explore any support we can also provide via this route. 

"Councillors meeting in our Policy and Co-ordination Committee on Thursday will discuss Fife’s response and any further action we can take to help during this fast-moving international crisis."

Judy Hamilton, the Convener of the local authority's Community and Housing service sub-committee, says that Fife is ready to help provide safe sanctuary to people who have had to leave their homes as a result of the invasion.

She said: "In Fife, we have a long tradition and proud history of welcoming refugees into our communities.

"The Home Office must now act swiftly to remove barriers and Visa requirements to refugees and allow safe passage to the UK.

"We stand ready to receive and welcome Ukrainian refugees."

The Home Office has guidance available for family members of British nationals in Ukraine and Ukrainian nationals in both Ukraine and the UK.

It says that temporary visa concessions have been introduced for family members of British nationals who usually live in Ukraine.

You can access more information on its website.