Lochaber communities rally to gather support for Ukraine

Lochaber is rallying in support of Ukrainians who are having to flee their homes and those who are staying to fight the terror of the Russian invasion, writes Fiona Scott.

Individuals and groups around the region have been organising aid support this week and a drop-in community gathering is due to be held on the Parade in Fort William on Saturday, between 11am and 4pm, to ‘express deep concern about the war’.

The event is being organised by a small group of people from Lochaber who are outraged and saddened by the unfolding events in eastern Europe. People are being encouraged to take supportive placards and the Ukrainian colours of blue and yellow.

Andrew Squire from Duisky is part of the organising group and told us: ‘For me, the conflict makes me feel angry, sad, and worried in equal measure.

‘For the innocent people literally caught in the crossfire, for the destabilising geo-political consequences, and for the inevitable deflection of attention and resources away from the global emergency of climate change and environmental destruction.’

Elsewhere charity donations have been organised across the region. Iwona Szymanska and Magda Kruk are just two of the individuals working with Polish charities in Aberdeen and Inverness who are sending aid packages out. Soaps, shampoo, gels, wet and dry wipes, pads, bandages, patches, sanitary products, painkillers, antiseptic and dry food are just some of the items required.

Many UK charities have been overwhelmed by donations of clothing and blankets etc and are asking for people not to donate any more at this time.

Lochaber Supports Refugees (LSR), working in conjunction with umbrella group The Highlands Support Refugees (THSR), is contributing to a financial donation for an organisation/charity working closely on the ground with Ukrainian refugees.

LSR volunteer Sandra Smith said: ‘THSR committee are currently liaising with action groups on the ground and contacts with Ukrainian links to try and ascertain the most effective way of reaching those in need.’

LSR have a unit in Fort William High Street with volunteers sorting and boxing donations every week. The unit is open every Monday and Thursday from 11am until 1pm for donations to be dropped off.