In May 2023, with the support of Powys County Council and Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations, Henderson Hall Committee was awarded a small Refugee Support Grant to set up a Ukrainian Audio Recording Oral History project.

As part of this story-telling project, Ukrainian refugees from South Powys share some of the challenges they have faced and how they have adapted and adjusted to their new situation, as well as give their perspective on life in Powys and their future plans. Hosts, supporters  and volunteers focus on the roles they have played in helping individuals and families to settle.

In giving people a voice, this project aims to raise awareness and understanding of Ukrainian people living locally and to preserve and celebrate this snapshot in time within Powys’s social history. It also seeks to make real the impact of the continuing war.

Here’s’ the link to the recordings: https://www.henderson-hall.com/welcome-to-https-hh-mikelewisdesign-co-uk/support-for- ukraine-and-refugees/powys-ukrainian-oral-history-project-and-beacons-for-ukraine/

The project has been coordinated by Beacons for Ukraine and professionally recorded at Henderson Hall in Talybont on Usk by As You See It Media, based in Crickhowell.

Beacons for Ukraine is an informal network of hosts, Ukrainian refugees, volunteers and supporters covering South Powys. Together, working alongside HBTSR, we provide information and advice, advocacy, signposting, networking opportunities, community links, peer support, social gatherings and friendship. Two WhatsApp groups have also been established: one for South Powys hosts and one for local Ukrainians. New members are always welcome.

For further information please contact Rhiannon Davies. m: 07940 961006 rhiannon.aber@btinternet.com or Olha Kotseruba, m: 07377 1106446, olha.kotseruba@gmail.com