**Support for Ukrainians in Somerset**
Many people from Ukraine who fled their homes due to the Russian invasion have found it very hard to adjust. But now, they are getting help to rebuild their lives.
A charity called Welcome Hubs is supporting these people. They offer English language lessons and have helped some of the 1,200 Ukrainian refugees who arrived in Somerset to find work.
**A personal story**
Kateryna Titova came from Kyiv but now lives in Taunton. She said it’s been very hard for her since leaving her family behind. But she’s found support at Welcome Hubs. They’ve helped her learn English and even set up a place where she can paint and show off her art.
Titova said: “I’m grateful for the help I’ve received. It’s been really tough, but now I feel like I can start to pick up the pieces of my life.”
**Finding work**
Another person, Igor Gorbatenko, fled from Kharkiv and ended up in Taunton after a long journey. He was supported by Welcome Hubs too. They helped him find an English class and even got him a voluntary job at Somerset Museum.
Gorbatenko said: “I’m very happy now. I have good friends and they’re friendly.”
**Helping others**
Alex Melbourne, the programme manager of Welcome Hubs, said their goal is to help these people in any way they can. He’s seen many people settle into their new life in Somerset.
“Everyone has been very welcoming,” he said. “We’re just trying to provide whatever these people need.”
**More than 180,000 refugees have moved to the UK**
According to government figures, over 180,000 Ukrainian refugees have come to the UK under the Homes for Ukraine scheme. Welcome Hubs is helping some of those who arrived in Somerset.