In an extraordinary show of solidarity and support, more than 50 vehicles will leave London this week, embarking on a crucial mission to Ukraine. These vehicles, primarily non-ULEZ compliant and donated through the capital’s ULEZ scrappage scheme, will be used for evacuating the wounded and delivering essential aid.
To mark this significant event, a ceremony was held at the Embassy of Ukraine, supported by the newly appointed Ambassador, Valerii Zaluzhnyi. Among the attendees was Swindonian Mike Bowden along with Oleksandr Usyk, Ukraine’s undisputed heavyweight boxing champion.
The initiative aims to raise awareness about the vehicle donation options available, both through the ULEZ scrappage scheme and private contributions. Ukraine’s urgent need for vehicles to deliver humanitarian and medical aid has been underscored by recent attacks, including the devastating strike on the Okhmadyt National Children’s Specialised Hospital in Kyiv.
Since hostilities escalated, numerous medical facilities in Ukraine have been targeted, severely hindering the provision of essential care. The situation has created a dire need for vehicles to ensure safe evacuations and urgent medical support.
From March 2024, the ULEZ scrappage scheme has been extended to allow vehicle donations to Ukraine, offering the same grant payment as scrapping. British-Ukrainian Aid (BUAid), a UK-registered charity, has been selected by Transport for London (TfL) to facilitate these donations. To date, over 300 vehicles have been accepted, with more than 200 already in Ukraine, providing vital on-ground support.
Ambassador Valerii Zaluzhnyi expressed profound gratitude for the support from Londoners and the UK government. “Every vehicle donated is a lifeline,” he said, urging eligible individuals to consider this impactful way to help.
Nadiia Pylypchuk, Trustee of British-Ukrainian Aid, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the critical need for more vehicles. “The full London ULEZ scrappage payment and the chance to give your vehicle a second life in Ukraine is a powerful incentive,” she said.
Oleksandr Usyk, attending the event, underscored the significant impact high-profile support can bring to humanitarian efforts. He praised the UK’s ongoing assistance amidst the brutal conflict.
Deputy Mayor for Transport, Seb Dance, noted the dual benefit of the scheme: supporting logistical and humanitarian needs in Ukraine while contributing to cleaner air in London. TfL’s Director of Strategy, Christina Calderato, encouraged continued donations, emphasising the vital aid these vehicles provide.
In addition to vehicles donated through the ULEZ scheme, various businesses and individuals have also contributed. Neg Earth Lights donated a lorry, and Transport UK London Bus donated a red London bus.
The Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership and V-Aid are also playing significant roles in this effort, providing much-needed medical and humanitarian aid. Mike Bowden, Chair and Founder of The Swindon Humanitarian Aid Partnership, highlighted the Swindon’s longstanding tradition of helping those in need, calling for continued support.
Tony Strutt, Founder and CEO of V-Aid, urged consideration of vehicle donations, stressing their critical role in delivering aid and providing essential transportation in Ukraine.
The event reflects a collaborative effort, bringing together numerous organisations and individuals committed to making a difference.
