Northern Ireland established Ukraine Assistance Centres four years ago this week to support people who fled Ukraine following Russia's invasion in February 2022.

The centres operated for 18 months under management by The Executive Office. Councils provided support at locations in Belfast, Newry, Craigavon, Ballymena, Dungannon and Derry.

Arriving Ukrainians received assistance on public services such as health, education, employment, social security benefits, housing and immigration.

The Law Centre provided immigration advice to more than 1000 families at the centres.

The centres facilitated processes including school enrolments and Universal Credit applications. Agencies identified vulnerable individuals facing issues like poor health, disability, homelessness, labour exploitation or gender-based harm.

As of December 2025, approximately 3200 visas have been granted to Ukrainians in Northern Ireland.

The Executive Office has committed to establishing resource hubs across council areas for asylum seekers and refugees.