Donations to help people in Ukraine can now be made through emergency response charity 'Jersey Side by Side'.

The registered charity was set up in response to the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami.

It is working with the Bailiff's Ukraine Appeal and Jersey Overseas Aid to process donations for the crisis in eastern Europe.

A new online giving platform has been created to support fundraising efforts, make it easier for islanders to pledge money and to maximise donations.

People who donate £50 or more to the appeal via the Side by Side website will be eligible for tax relief, meaning every £1 will be worth £1.25 to the appeal.

Chairman Michel Le Troquer says islanders’ generosity will go further to help those affected by the conflict:

"People are shocked by what is going on.  Everybody is trying to help in some way. People cannot believe what is happening - and happening so quickly."

All donations received by the Bailiff's Ukraine Appeal and Jersey Side by Side will be given out by Jersey Overseas Aid to its partner humanitarian agencies - ensuring the funding reaches the people and places where it is most needed.

Meanwhile, are being asked to supply details of any suitable accommodation they can offer to families fleeing the conflict by emailing [email protected].

I have registered to offer a home to Ukrainian refugees. I have a small spare room. https://t.co/mTfxKtxdui

— Jennifer Bridge (@JennBridge) March 8, 2022

The government has said a 'small number' of visa applications have been received so far from Ukrainian refugees with relatives living in the island.

They can come here under the UK's family scheme, but it is being widely-criticised for being too slow and complex. 

As of Wednesday morning (9 March) 760 visas had been granted by the UK from more than 22,000 applications.

External Relations Minister Senator Ian Gorst agrees the pace of help should be hastened:

We are currently focusing on getting family members here, and supporting them. I’m sorry that it’s so difficult and bureaucratic, but we are working with the U.K. I agree with you, that we must and can do more. I’ll be picking up again with U.K. tomorrow.

— Senator Ian Gorst (@Ian_Gorst) March 8, 2022

Deputy Gregory Guida has since confirmed that five visa applications have been granted so far, with more to follow.

"As soon as we get an application, we approve it, so it's very very quick from our side.

They are British visas, they are applied for in Great Britain, so we need to receive the paperwork before we can approve it.

But as soon as we get it, we do it."

Up to £250,000 has been made available to help any Ukrainian nationals who are eligible to come to Jersey.