Help Alla & Ulyana Stay in the UK - Visa Support Fund

My name is Theresa Novotny. For over thirty years, I chaired the Oldham branch of the Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline (CCLL) charity, helping children from Belarus and Ukraine come to the UK for fresh air, good nutrition, and a break from the long-term effects of the Chernobyl disaster.

One of those children was Alla Hurskaya—a bright, kind, and determined young girl who stayed with local families in Saddleworth and grew to love this country deeply. Among those who welcomed her were Helen and John Rigby, who supported Alla not only during her childhood visits but also when she returned to the UK as an adult, with her daughter Ulyana, to study and build a better future.

Alla is now an accomplished English teacher and interpreter, and the devoted mother of 10-year-old Ulyana, who is thriving in school here.

Today, we are asking for your help to ensure they are not forced to return to Belarus, where political repression and social instability would place them in genuine danger.

What We’re Raising Funds For

Alla is actively pursuing two official UK visa pathways in tandem, both of which she intends to apply for:

Both routes are legally valid and together represent the best chance of stability. However, they also carry significant costs:

These figures do not include additional costs for translation, biometric appointments, or legal/documentary support.

Stepped Fundraising Target

The total amount we are raising is £21,051, which covers the full cost of both visa applications for Alla and her daughter. To ensure the process begins as soon as possible, we are adopting a stepped fundraising strategy:

Every donation—whether it helps us reach the initial milestone or supports the full campaign—brings this family closer to safety and stability.

All funds will be managed with full transparency. If any portion is no longer required (e.g. if a waiver is granted), remaining funds will be held for legal/renewal purposes, returned where possible, or donated responsibly.

‍About Alla and Ulyana

Alla holds a Master’s degree with distinction in TESOL & Applied Linguistics from Manchester Metropolitan University. She currently teaches ESOL for Oldham Council’s Lifelong Learning Centre and works as a freelance interpreter, often supporting Ukrainian refugees who have fled war.

Her daughter Ulyana is a bright, kind, and talented young girl. She speaks fluent, native-accented English, was elected as a Student Council representative at her local primary school, and has recently been offered a fully funded place—including an Art Scholarship—at one of Greater Manchester’s most respected independent grammar schools.

That place, and her chance to thrive, depends on a successful visa outcome.

Where Will the Money Go?

We will publish updates and breakdowns as funds are used.

A Community Standing Together

This campaign is organised by Theresa Novotny, in collaboration with Helen and John Rigby, and with Alla’s full consent and participation.

Our local community—including teachers, former host families, friends, and fellow residents—stands behind Alla and Ulyana. We believe they have earned their place in the UK not just by law, but through contribution, connection, and care.

✨ How You Can Help

Every donation, no matter how small, helps secure the future of this mother and daughter. If you can’t give, please share the campaign link or pass it along to someone who might.

With heartfelt thanks,

Theresa Novotny

with Helen and John Rigby

& supporters of Alla and Ulyana

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is this campaign for?

This fundraiser supports Alla Hurskaya and her daughter Ulyana in remaining lawfully and securely in the UK by covering the significant costs of two visa applications—both of which Alla intends to pursue:

2. Why both visa applications?

These two legal pathways each provide different options for long-term residence and stability in the UK. They are not alternatives—both are necessary:

3. What is the fundraising goal?

We are raising a total of £21,051 to cover all application fees for both routes:

We are using a stepped goal strategy:

4. What happens after the Private Life application is submitted?

Once submitted, Alla and Ulyana are permitted to remain in the UK while their application is being processed. This provides crucial time to continue pursuing sponsorship and employment offers for the Skilled Worker Visa application without legal disruption.

5. What will the funds be used for?

6. Is this campaign legitimate?

Yes. This campaign is organised by Theresa Novotny, former Chairwoman of the Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline in Oldham, with the public support of Helen and John Rigby, and Alla’s full consent and participation.

Theresa and the Rigbys have known Alla for over 20 years and continue to support her and her daughter as trusted community members.

7. What if one application succeeds before the other?

Both applications serve different purposes. However, if one visa becomes unnecessary or a cost is waived, the funds will be redirected toward the other route or held for legal follow-up. We will update all donors with complete transparency.

8. What about Ulyana’s education?

Ulyana is thriving both academically and socially. She currently attends a local Church of England primary school and has recently been offered a fully funded place—including an Art Scholarship—at one of Greater Manchester’s most respected independent grammar schools. These opportunities, and her continued development, depend on a stable visa outcome.

9. How can I stay updated or help further?

Updates will be posted on GoFundMe. You can also help by: