London, 9th March, 2022: 

Alison Griffins, Head of Conflict and Humanitarian Campaigns at Save the Children UK, said: “Nowhere in Ukraine is safe for families. Children are being killed, injured, forced from their homes, separated from relatives and friends, and terrified by explosions. We’re urging the UK government to immediately step up its response, in line with the enormous need, to provide a safe sanctuary for those fleeing the terrible violence in Ukraine. 

“We’re incredibly alarmed to hear that refugees are being turned away at Calais as well as reports of the slow processing of visas for families who have fled Ukraine in fear. 

“The UK government needs a humanitarian visa system that is quick, simple and ensures that those fleeing persecution can apply for a visa on humanitarian grounds. The UK must play their part in providing immediate protection to people fleeing the conflict in Ukraine and lead the efforts in ensuring that fast and safe travel routes are available for Ukrainian refugees, including by relaxing family reunification procedures. It’s inhumane to criminalise those seeking sanctuary in our country and leaving many others in limbo.” 

ENDS

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