The LFS community has been devastated by the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian State, and we stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and millions of others, to condemn the actions of the Russian government in the strongest possible terms.
We continue to support our small but invaluable community of LFS students and alumni from Ukraine as well as colleagues and partners and all others who are directly impacted by the conflict. Our thoughts continue to go out to our film education colleagues in Ukraine and especially all the children who have taken part in our International Virtual Film Clubs. We endorse the statement made by our friends at CILECT calling for the immediate cessation of the conflict.
The conflict has been profoundly disturbing to see, and terrifying for those living under such conditions over the last few weeks. We are an international school and the events in Ukraine are devasting as we defend the fundamental values of freedom, democracy, and humanity.
At any one time, there are more than 20 conflicts estimated to be taking place globally. Many of our colleagues are affected by such events and we stand with them and their families.
The safety and wellbeing of our students and staff is our first priority and we are monitoring the current situation in Ukraine very closely. We realise it is a very stressful and worrying time for many in the LFS community – please do reach out for support if you need to.
Support for students
Students can find advice in the LFS Students Portal for support with their wellbeing, mental health, and study, either for themselves or if they are worried about another student. The Home Office has confirmed that Ukrainians who are on study visas in the UK will have their visas temporarily extended or be able to switch onto different visa routes. Those students who have been directly impacted can be provided with counselling support by contacting student.services@lfs.org.uk.
Support for staff
The HR SharePoint site gives staff access to our employee assistance programme providing free confidential support, and advice if you are dealing with these issues over the telephone (0800 030 5182) or online 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Please also speak to your line manager about any other support or flexibility you may require.
Gisli Snaer, Director