Wells marked this year's Refugee Week under the theme "Community as a Superpower" – a celebration of how kindness and connection can transform lives.

The Wells Welcome Hub played a central role throughout the week, joining forces with Oxfam and Amnesty International for two special events.

An exhibition on 16 June invited visitors to trace the perilous journeys of refugees, showing how they rebuild their lives within new communities.

The following day, at Wells Cathedral, the Hub's assistant manager, Inna Prykhodko, gave a moving speech about her work and the stories she has witnessed.

She spoke of displaced people arriving lost and fearful, gradually finding belonging and purpose through learning English, volunteering, attending local events and making friends.

Prykhodko expressed heartfelt thanks to the people of Wells for offering both shelter and kindness.

"Although refugees often arrive feeling desperate and disoriented, they can thrive over time, integrating successfully through language, social connections and shared moments with their new neighbours," she said.

To round off the celebrations, Ukrainian guests living in Wells came together for a community picnic on the South Lawn of the Bishop's Palace.

The gathering offered a rare moment of respite from the ongoing invasion of their homeland, and a chance to connect with friends and neighbours in a welcoming, supportive space.