B&FC Response to Ukraine Crisis

We, like so much of the world, are appalled by events which are unfolding in Ukraine that threaten the very values we hold dear; values like democracy, freedom of speech and the right to self-determination. Such aggression and the resulting human suffering are never acceptable and we condemn the Russian government’s decision to launch an unprovoked attack on another sovereign state.

We echo international calls for a de-escalation in the violence, the withdrawal of military personnel from Ukrainian territory and all efforts made towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict. At the same time, we stand together with the Ukrainian people and in support of our colleagues and their students in the international academic community.

We understand too that this conflict has far reaching consequences and we are here to support colleagues and students in our own organisation who may be more anxious than normal or who may have connections in either Ukraine or Russia and be personally affected by this crisis. We acknowledge that the actions of the Russian government are not necessarily supported by the Russian people.

Any student finding themselves in need of additional help at this time can contact our Student Support and Wellbeing team via the green self-referral button on Canvas. The team will either be able to help them directly or refer them to specialist support should that be required. Staff requiring support can contact HR or refer themselves to the Employee Assistance Programme on 0800 030 5182 – the services is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. More information about the service can be found at My wellbeing & behaviours (blackpool.ac.uk)