Tanya’s Story: Finding Home Again
When the full-scale invasion began, I packed what I could carry — leaving behind my home in Kyiv and my job. But how do you fit your whole life into a suitcase?
While helping others come to the UK, I didn’t yet have a visa myself and was unsure about taking that step. I had never been to the UK before.
Continuing my work with USPUK, alongside our Ukraine Consultation Team who have been together since the very beginning, I feel surrounded by more than colleagues — they are friends, an extended family.
When the full-scale invasion began, I packed what I could carry — leaving behind my home in Kyiv and my job. But how do you fit your whole life into a suitcase?
My first destination was Poland. Like thousands of Ukrainians, I crossed the border unsure of where I would go next. The journey was filled with fear and disbelief, but also an unspoken promise to protect myself and my family no matter what.
Poland became our first temporary refuge. We were safe, yes — but not settled. Everything felt fragile: new systems, a language I could partly understand but not speak fluently, and the constant background hum of worry about those left behind. I tried to stay strong for my family — volunteering at a refugee centre, helping my sister continue her studies, and navigating endless paperwork. Yet every day carried a quiet exhaustion.
At that time, my work became a place of unexpected comfort and connection. When USPUK was newly founded in March 2022, the team embraced me and gave me a chance to use my energy and skills to help others. It became more than a job — it became a purpose.
While helping others come to the UK, I didn’t yet have a visa myself and was unsure about taking that step. I had never been to the UK before. My colleagues encouraged me to take this step which I am so grateful for. Later that year, I arrived in South Wales under the Super Sponsorship scheme, staying in student accommodation and slowly absorbing the calm rhythm of Welsh village life as I tried to adjust to the entire new country.
The journey wasn’t easy — first living with a host family in Swindon, later moving to London — but I will be forever grateful to everyone who supported me along the way, showing compassion and kindness when it mattered most.
In late 2024, I finally managed to rent independently and relocate my mum and sister to the UK, as the situation in Ukraine didn’t improve and war still went on. It was another challenge, but one that brought us the greatest reward — a place we can finally call home.
Continuing my work with USPUK, alongside our Ukraine Consultation Team who have been together since the very beginning, I feel surrounded by more than colleagues — they are friends, an extended family.
Having walked this path myself, I now tell others: if the opportunity arises to come to the UK through the Homes for Ukraine scheme, take it. I had no idea what awaited me on the other side of that decision — only that we needed stability and a chance to rebuild. That feeling is shared by so many, and I’m honoured to now be in a position to help others overcome their fears and uncertainties and take that same brave step
