On Monday (27th March), in a letter to the Scottish Parliament, Neil Gray MSP confirmed the Scottish Government’s intention to close MS Victoria currently docked in Leith as one part of Scotland’s response to housing Ukrainian refugees.
Over the last year EVOC has been engaged with The City of Edinburgh council, and more recently Scottish Government, to plan longer term support for the Ukrainian community. Confirming the closure of MS Victoria, the Scottish Government has committed to supporting all Ukrainian’s housed onboard MS Victoria to source alternative accommodation. In response to the war against Ukraine and response to supporting New Scots, Edinburgh’s community sector has stepped up to provide services directly to clients most in need – a full summary of the support provided can be found on the EVOC website here.
The Scottish Refugee Council have confirmed that their helpline, operational Mon-Fri 9am – 5pm, on 0808 1967 274 can provide support and advice to clients. Additionally, the Scottish Government is encouraging households across Scotland to become a volunteer host to provide accommodation to Ukrainian families seeking refuge in Scotland. Expressions of interest can be submitted here.
The potential impact of this decision by Scottish Government is understandable, particularly to those who have started education or managed to secure work within the City of Edinburgh. MS Victoria has provided a resource to the response in Edinburgh that has allowed us to support Ukrainians to settle and integrate in to communities across Edinburgh. Edinburgh’s partnership of organisations, including City of Edinburgh Council, voluntary sector, and community groups are committed to ensuring the potential disruption to the Ukrainian community caused by the closure is minimised. The City of Edinburgh Council has reiterated their commitment to the Ukrainian community and that Edinburgh will be a home for Ukrainians for as long as they need it to be. Feniks Counselling have established a mental health support service for the Ukrainian community for anyone who requires support, further information about the service can be found here.
EVOC is interested in getting an understanding of the impact of this announcement on voluntary sector services, to inform discussions with local and national government partners, please share any information regarding increased demand on services via email.
Best wishes
Bridie Ashrowan, Chief Executive
