Stressors faced by forcibly displaced Ukrainians in England within 6 months of arrival: A qualitative study

Stressors faced by Ukrainians forcibly displaced by the 2022 Russian invasion is a relatively unexplored area. The aim of this paper is to explore stressors shaping the mental well-being of forcibly displaced Ukrainians in England. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 15 forcibly displaced Ukrainians (within 6 months of arrival) and 6 stakeholders, focusing on life experiences in England and barriers accessing critical services. We drew on the Four Core Stressors Framework to conduct reflexive thematic analysis, focusing on the following sources of stress: trauma, acculturation and resettlement. Key stressors centered on barriers in accessing housing and employment, compounded by the language barrier, family separation and ongoing war-related trauma. These stressors were perceived to contribute to feelings of fear, uncertainty, sorrow, numbness, disorientation, confusion, helplessness, and anxiety. Greater support in accessing housing, employment and language instruction would address key stressors, which may bolster mental health. Findings may be relevant to policymakers structuring the support system for forcibly displaced persons in other high-income settings. • Post-migratory stressors amongst Ukrainian refugees focus on housing and employment. • Other stressors are inaccessible language courses, family separation and war-trauma. • Support to address stressors may bolster mental health for this marginalised group.