THE RIGHTS of Ukraine children was the subject of a Worcester Liberal Democrat’s conference speech at Brighton.
Coun Mel Allcott used her third speech at the Lib Dem Conference to back a motion submitted by the Young Liberal Democrats designed to help protect the rights and freedoms of Ukrainian migrants who came to the UK to escape the war with Russia.
After making her debut speeches last year, the Worcestershire county and Worcester city councillor urged the conference on Monday September 22 to get behind the motion which called for the government to establish a pathway for Ukrainians who have integrated into life in the UK to remain long–term.
She called on the government to work to ensure that Ukrainian pupils do not face delays in school enrolment, as well the re-establishment of GCSEs and A-levels in Ukrainian language, and Ukrainian-language books and educational materials to be available in schools and libraries.
Her speech also urged the government to support Ukrainian cultural, educational, and linguistic initiatives for Ukrainian children while they reside in the UK, and for guidance and support for Ukrainians living in the UK to access further and higher education, including apprenticeships.
In her speech Coun Allcott said: ‘I have had the privilege to both support and spend time with the Worcestershire Ukrainian community. I believe they know they have our support. What they need now is certainty. Certainty the UK government will automatically extend visas. Certainty for the future of their children.
“The UK government needs to step up and provide certainty, which must include certainty of education. A place in a school without delay, a clear pathway and a curriculum which includes being able to study their Ukrainian language and culture. Children need stability to grow, to learn, to thrive.
“Let’s show we always stand with Ukraine, not just on the world stage but here, in our communities, in our classrooms and in the lives of children who deserve to flourish.’
