Certificate of Appreciation Awarded to Paul Smith
On the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full scale invasion of Ukraine, Paul Smith, Managing Director of Functional Skills UK, was awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by Stand for U Brighton & Hove in recognition of sustained humanitarian support that has helped save lives.
The certificate acknowledges four years of practical action and long term commitment to the Ukrainian community, both locally and internationally.
Support That Began in 2022
Within days of the invasion in 2022, our premises were set up as an aid drop off, sorting and relay station, sending supplies to London and eventually connecting directly with the frontline in Ukraine.
By April 2022, the first Ukrainian refugees arrived in Brighton & Hove. We organised English classes and gradually supported individuals into employment. Today, Paul Smith is the city’s largest employer of Ukrainians.
We also established a weekly Ukrainian children’s club, which continues to run, and we remain actively involved in sending humanitarian aid.
Measurable Impact
Through partnership with Stand for U, our contribution has helped facilitate:
- Delivery of 10 evacuation vehicles into Ukraine
- Shipment of over 80 tonnes of humanitarian aid
- Support contributing to the evacuation of more than 8,000 civilians
- Protection and rescue of over 500 animals from frontline areas
Recently, we part funded a new evacuation minibus for Stand for U, an organisation formed in part by the first Ukrainian refugees we taught in 2022.
The certificate recognises that this work has played a vital role in saving the lives of thousands of civilians.
Leadership Beyond Education
Functional Skills UK delivers adult skills programmes, Skills Bootcamps and employability training across the South East of England. Alongside our core educational mission, we believe leadership carries responsibility beyond commercial performance.
Paul Smith said:
“Leadership carries responsibility beyond commercial performance. When communities face crisis, we must act. This recognition reflects the collective commitment of our staff, learners, partners, friends and supporters who chose to stand with Ukraine.”
As the conflict continues, Functional Skills UK remains committed to providing practical and moral support to the Ukrainian people.
