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July 31, 2026
Ms Svitlana’s village in Zaporizhzhia oblast was occupied on 3 March 2022. She tended her vegetable garden, looked after the household and did everything she could to provide her family with the essentials.
Her home came under shelling several times. After it was hit for the second time, it became clear that staying was no longer possible. The house was almost completely destroyed, and there was no organised evacuation from the village. To leave, Ms. Svitlana sold her cow — almost the only property left. Eventually, she and her daughter managed to leave the occupied territory through Russia and Belarus.
The constant fear, compounded by the news that her sister had been taken captive, had a serious impact on the woman's health. Due to vision problems, she almost lost the ability to manage even everyday matters independently.
After Ms. Svitlana contacted a social support specialist from Right to Protection, an individual support plan was developed for her. She received assistance with: registering with a family doctor; undergoing the necessary medical examinations; obtaining an IDP certificate; receiving state social benefits, and food and hygiene
Thanks to the support fof the Fund, Ms Svitlana and her daughter found accommodation. They also received:
On 17 July, accompanied by a specialist of Right to Protection, Ms Svitlana underwent an expert assessment, as a result of which she was assigned the III group of disability. The documents for issuing the relevant certificate have already been submitted to the Pension Fund of Ukraine.
Today, Ms Svitlana continues her treatment and is gradually adjusting her life. Her story shows how comprehensive support helps people who have lived through occupation take their first steps towards a new life.
This material was developed within the PULSE National Consortium, coordinated by Right to Protection, and funded with UK aid from the UK Government. The UK Government’s support for this project in Ukraine is provided through the SHARP component of its Humanitarian Assistance, Recovery and Protection Programme. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the official position of the UK Government.
