Additional reporting by KMTV’s Abigail Hook

A 22-year-old Ukrainian refugee says Kent has been a “sanctuary” for her after fleeing the war in her country.

Alina Ivanova’s life turned upside down when Russia invaded in February 2022.

The turning point for leaving her life behind was when a Russian bomb hit a checkpoint just 500 metres from her family home.

Her flat has since been obliterated during the conflict.

She told KentOnline: “That was when I knew I had to leave.

“Deciding to go was incredibly tough, especially since I had already experienced war in 2014 when I was just 13.

“That earlier conflict left deep scars on my mental health, overshadowing my childhood.”

They first settled in Moldova and then Ireland, but a lack of housing displaced them once again.

Finally, a family in Gravesham welcomed them in.

Alina said: “My wonderful hosts decided to accept us.

“They were very welcoming and my adaptation and my mother's adaptation went well, because they were very kind and warm.

“I'm very grateful to them till the end of my life.

“I really love Kent.

“There are lots of stuff to do and we're constantly going on walks.

“There’s very nice nature.

“Currently, I'm experiencing the best of my life and I’m studying at the University of Kent.

“Gravesham Borough Council and Kent as a whole are really supportive.

“I attended events and met other Ukrainian families.”

It is currently Refugee Week - the world’s largest arts and culture festival celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary.

It runs from June 17 to June 23 and was started in 1998 in the UK.

Alina, who is studying digital design at the university’s Canterbury campus, also met her boyfriend in the county, for whom she is “really grateful for”.

But back in Ukraine, things are not so good.

Alina’s home has been destroyed after a bomb was launched at it.

She explained: “It went straight into my flat.

“I feel very sad about what's happening with my home and what's happening with Ukrainians who also had to leave their home behind them and start new lives.

“It's definitely very upsetting.”

For the future, Alina wants to stay in the Garden of England.

She said: “My long-term plans are definitely in Kent.

“I really love, and enjoy the life in Kent and in the UK.

“There’s lots of volunteering charities here, and lots of support from the NHS, from the government. Lots of support from everyone here.

“I was worried how people would perceive me but UK people are very warm and very welcoming.

“I really enjoy talking to British people because I love Ukraine but some people are not quite welcoming.

“I feel like UK is much more welcome about mental health issues.

“This country has become a sanctuary for me, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities it has provided.”