Are you hosting a Ukrainian refugee? Here's how you can provide practical support

It is important to be sensitive about the trauma those fleeing war have endured 

Ukrainian evacuees wait to board a train en route to Warsaw at the rail station in Przemysl, near the Polish-Ukrainian border last month.

There is an urgent need for government guidance and training to support members of the public who have so generously stepped forward to offer support to Ukrainian refugees. The provision of support in this context can be complex and emotionally challenging, given the multiple losses and trauma experienced by refugees, as well as the structural challenges and racism and discrimination they face. It is not surprising that difficulties will arise. 

For example, there are already reports that some hosting arrangements have broken down. In my experience as a social worker supporting people of a refugee background, these are the key principles to consider.