Monmouthshire County Council held a community engagement meeting with the Monmouthshire Ukrainian Group in Chepstow (MUGiC) at the Upcycle Café in Chepstow. This important event offered a forum for open discussion and helped local Ukrainian residents voice their concerns directly to Council representatives.
Attendees discussed a wide range of topics, including:
- Their sense of belonging in the local community
- Community safety and experiences of bullying in schools
- Mental health support and well‑being
- The need for better access to language learning
- Recognition of foreign qualifications—many highly skilled individuals remain underemployed
- Employment support workshops, covering CV writing, interview skills, and application help
- Interest in cultural activities celebrating Welsh heritage
- Support for starting businesses
- Uncertainty about their immigration status, education continuity, and medical care
Council officers reported that they will review the feedback gathered and provide follow‑up support where possible. While not all issues can be resolved by the Council, they are committed to signposting attendees to relevant professionals and community resources. They also affirmed plans to help MUGiC with project planning, community cohesion events, and capacity building Monmouthshire.
Cllr Angela Sandles, Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Equalities and Engagement, stated:
“Community engagement events like these are a great way to meet and listen to members of our communities. We will take on board the points made by the attendees at the Upcycle Café. We may not be able to help with every aspect, but we can certainly signpost to relevant professionals and organisations. We will look to help the group with project planning and cohesion events. I would like to thank the members of MUGiC for taking the time to meet with us.”
This meeting demonstrates Monmouthshire’s ongoing commitment to inclusive dialogue and support for its Ukrainian community. The Council continues to strive to understand and help address lived experiences, barriers, and aspirations in order to enhance integration and community cohesion.
Source: Monmouthshire County Council
