Grassroots help to be discussed at Crieff meeting

Crieff Food Co is hosting a public meeting on Monday, April 11, to give an insight into what more can be done locally to help with the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, and in particular refugees arriving in Perthshire.

Jamie Landale of Crieff Food Co attended a meeting in Aberfeldy where he met Duncan Spinner, who is helping the community there aid displaced families.

He was keen to bring Duncan to Crieff to explain how similar aid can be replicated in the Strath.

Jamie said:“There are many ways of helping with this humanitarian effort and lots of people doing some amazing things.

“At this public meeting we have three speakers who will enlighten us on what needs to be done and a few of the ways we can help locally.

“Duncan Spinner will give a very real account of what is going on and what needs to be done.

“Originally from Pitlochry, Duncan was evacuated from Luhansk in the Ukraine with his two year-old daughter just before the invasion started. He had been working with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office in Luhansk for the past seven years and his story is very powerful with many of his staff currently on the run, many with young children.

“Duncan is really keen to link up with local businesses to explore the possibility of organising humanitarian visas for many of his staff. Hearing him speak makes this horrific situation very, very real.”

Strathearn Welcome has been set up to unite Crieff, Comrie and the surrounding area in supporting refugees within the community.

Crieff’s Ronnie Nielson will give an introduction to the group, which is looking to work with individuals, businesses and the wider community to offer a coherent support network for refugees.

They are looking for people who can offer support, including befriending, form filling, help with transport, offers of accommodation, fundraising and so on.

And Jen Anderson, a volunteer integration coordinator with the Scottish Refugee Council, will talk about the independent charity dedicated to supporting refugees in need of protection.

The Scottish Refugee Council’s direct services provide practical support, advice and a listening ear to help people rebuild their lives in a sustainable and meaningful way, working with communities and community groups.

Those wishing to attend the meeting, which takes place from 6pm in the James Square-based Crieff Food Co, should register via Eventbrite.