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<p>Alongside our allies, we are united in support for Ukraine. The Department for
Education has been working closely with the education sector and across government
more widely to ensure that Ukrainian and Russian students are supported during this
difficult time.</p><p> </p><p>This includes a new visa option for Ukrainian nationals,
including students, that will provide them with an opportunity to extend their leave
or switch to a graduate visa without having to leave the UK.</p><p> </p><p>We continue
to welcome Ukrainian and Russian pupils and students to UK universities and schools,
where we are proud of the long history we have defending values such as freedom of
speech and freedom of publication. However, anyone subject to sanctions will have
actions taken against them, including if they are in education.</p><p> </p><p>We recognise
the current uncertainty will mean that many students may experience additional mental
health challenges. Protecting student and staff wellbeing is vital and it is important
students continue to be able to access the mental health and wellbeing support they
need.</p><p> </p><p>All schools, including independent schools, have a legal duty
to safeguard and promote the welfare of children as part of the statutory safeguarding
guidance, keeping children safe in education. The guidance sets out how schools should
protect children from harm and what to do if they have concerns about a child. It
includes guidance on bullying, child on child abuse and mental health. It sets out
where schools should go to access specialist support for children.</p><p> </p><p>We
encourage students to stay in touch with their higher education provider’s welfare
teams as these services are likely to continue to be an important source of support.
Providers are not only experts in their student population but also best placed to
identify the needs of their students.</p>
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