We were honoured to come together in celebration of Ukrainian arts and culture to mark the anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of Ukraine. This special event featured a musical performance led by concert pianist Nataliia Zadorizhna and her Ukrainian choir, “Renaissance”. Formed in England in 2022, the choir is composed of individuals who were forced to leave Ukraine due to the war, bringing their voices and resilience to new audiences.

The evening also included a powerful screening of “Home for Ukraine”, an emotional and impactful documentary by award-winning producer Ksenia Buhrimova. The film offers a unique perspective on the war in Ukraine through the eyes of well-known figures in the UK who who sheltered people from Ukraine in their homes, highlighting the deep connections formed in times of crisis.

Beyond the music and film, this gathering was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the significance of Constitution Day for Ukrainians. The words enshrined in the Constitution of 1996 have become a powerful reminder of resilience, democracy, and freedom. Today, more than ever, the Constitution is not just a set of laws, but a symbol of the enduring spirit and values that unite the people of Ukraine.

We are grateful to everyone who joined us in this celebration and stand in solidarity with Ukraine.

The MVDC Homes for Ukraine team hosted a special celebration event to express our gratitude to the incredible hosts in our community. Since the launch of the Homes for Ukraine scheme, 277 Ukrainian guests have found a safe and welcoming home in Mole Valley, thanks to the kindness and generosity of our residents.

This event was an opportunity to recognise the vital role our hosts play and to create a space for meaningful discussions on how we can improve their experience and provide better support.

Throughout the evening, hosts had the chance to connect, share their experiences, and reflect on the impact of hosting. We had a Q&A session which provided valuable insights, helping us better understand both the challenges and the rewards of hosting. Hearing directly from our hosts reinforced just how life-changing this experience has been—not only for the guests they support but for the hosts themselves.

We are deeply grateful to every host who has opened their doors and hearts. Your generosity continues to make a real difference in the lives of Ukrainian families seeking safety.

Christmas in Ukraine is a cherished time when the soul longs for warmth and the heart for light. For many Ukrainians, December 25 has become a day when European Christmas traditions intertwine with authentic Ukrainian customs. It is a season of reflection, family gatherings, and festive joy.

On 14 December 2024, the MVDC Homes for Ukraine team organised a Special Ukrainian Christmas Celebration for the Ukrainian community in Mole Valley. More than 35 children aged 4 to 17, together with their families, gathered at the Dorking Christian Centre to celebrate Christmas.

St Nicholas — a symbol of generosity and kindness in Ukrainian culture — distributed gifts to the children, creating a heart‑warming connection to home during the holiday season. His visit was about more than presents; it was about preserving traditions and reminding the children that even in difficult times, joy and hope endure.

Homes for Ukraine team was delighted to involve all ages, ensuring that Ukrainians could come together and feel close to one another during this challenging period.

The event highlighted the power of community and kindness, fostering unity and warmth at this special time of year. Parents expressed heartfelt gratitude for the thoughtful gesture, while children enjoyed an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, excitement, and festive cheer.

With the benefits of sport for mind, body, and socialising well-established, Sports and Communities Officer wanted to find a way to deliver these benefits to Leatherhead’s Ukrainian guests displaced by the Russian invasion.

Through surveys, evening tennis sessions were identified as a popular option for the guests and were subsequently arranged at Christ Church Lawn Tennis Club at Leatherhead Leisure Centre. Funded by the Homes for Ukraine scheme, the Club was extremely accommodating and were able to deliver two sessions a week for 6 weeks. As well as developing tennis skills, the initiative helped to bring the Ukrainian community together, cultivate social and friendship connections, reduce loneliness, and improve their wellbeing.

Most of the participants had little experience in tennis, so coached sessions were organised to support the group. LTA accredited coach George Ellis was delighted to work with the new players. With George’s help they made big progress and saw their tennis skills improving. One of the participants said: “George is an excellent coach who is very helpful, patient and meticulous at establishing good technique”.

Councillor Nick Wright, Councillor Nick Wright, MVDC’s Cabinet Member for Leisure & Tourism, said:

“Sport can be such a powerful tool to make connections, to heal and improve physical and mental health, as well as learn new skills. While the initial plan was for 12 sessions, following such a wonderful impact and feedback from Ukrainian guests, the sessions will continue. 

To further support the group, tennis rackets have now been funded via our Wellbeing resources, meaning they can continue playing in their own time and into the future, helping to encourage their interest into the future. It’s great to see a programme like this come together to help our Ukrainian guests feel at home and enjoy the benefits taking part in a new sport. A big thank you to everyone involved in making this happen.”

This summer, the Homes for Ukraine Team brought the Ukrainian community together through a series of four engaging creative workshops held at the Fairfield Centre in Leatherhead. The programme was designed for both adults and children, offering everyone the opportunity to try something new and create their own masterpiece.

Throughout the season, participants took part in workshops on:

• Painting
• Clay modelling
• Mosaic craft making

Each session provided a welcoming space where participants could explore their creativity, learn new skills, and express themselves through art. The atmosphere was warm, friendly, and full of inspiration — with people chatting, laughing, sharing ideas, and supporting one another.

By the end of each workshop, participants proudly took home their handmade creations. More importantly, they enjoyed meaningful time together, strengthened community connections, and created lasting memories.

The Homes for Ukraine Team is delighted with the positive feedback and looks forward to organising more events like this in the future, continuing to support and bring the community together.

Autumn Art Workshop for the Ukrainian Community

The Homes for Ukraine Team recently hosted a warm and inspiring Autumn Art Workshop on 16 October 2025 at the Leatherhead Hub, bringing together Ukrainian families for a creative afternoon filled with imagination, craftsmanship, and friendly conversation.

More than 14 participants, including both children and adults, took part in the event. Each attendee created their own handmade doll — some reflecting traditional Ukrainian cultural elements, while others showcased contemporary and imaginative designs.

Children especially enjoyed the creative process, experimenting with different materials, textures, and colours to craft unique dolls that expressed their personal ideas and artistic vision. Their enthusiasm and proud smiles reflected the joy the activity brought them.

The atmosphere throughout the workshop was warm, supportive, and full of positive energy. Families sat together, collaborating on techniques, offering encouragement, and treasuring valuable time spent in each other’s company.

The Homes for Ukraine Team is deeply grateful to everyone who joined this memorable autumn gathering. The event highlighted the power of creativity and community, and we look forward to organising more workshops that strengthen bonds and celebrate artistic expression.

Homes for Ukraine Hosts Heart-Warming Christmas Art Workshop in Leatherhead

Leatherhead, 6 December 2025 — The Homes for Ukraine team organized a festive Christmas art workshop at the Fairfield Centre, bringing together 27 children and adults from Ukrainian families to create ornaments and handmade gifts.

Led by talented Ukrainian artist Natalia, the workshop offered inspiring guidance and fostered creativity among participants. The atmosphere was filled with joy as families crafted beautiful pieces and enjoyed the spirit of community.

The Homes for Ukraine team extends sincere thanks to Jo Sheedy, Manager of the Fairfield Centre, for her generous support and warm welcome.

This event was a wonderful celebration of creativity, togetherness, and the magic of Christmas, highlighting the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian community in Surrey.