Borough of Sanctuary to launch in Sandwell

Sandwell launched its ‘Borough of Sanctuary’ on Saturday 20 June, as local organisations join up with towns and cities across the country to provide places of safety and inclusion for people seeking sanctuary in the UK.

City of Sanctuary is a national movement, which began in Sheffield in 2005. The goal is to create a nationwide network of towns and cities which are proud to be places of safety and inclusion.

A City of Sanctuary includes a broad range of local organisations, community groups and faith communities, all publicly committed to helping refugees and asylum seekers seeking sanctuary in the UK.

A number of local organisations including Bearwood Action for Refugees and Brushstrokes community project have been working hard to create and promote the work of Sandwell as a ‘Borough of Sanctuary’.

Sandwell Council Leader Yvonne Davies said: “I am extremely proud of Sandwell’s diversity. We are an inclusive borough, made up of people from countries and cultures from around the world. We welcome those seeking safety and the Council wants all residents to feel they are safe and a valued part of our borough.

“Sandwell’s ‘Borough of Sanctuary’ is growing and already doing great work, and I want even more organisations and individuals to join up and support their local communities, helping to create a stronger and more united Sandwell.”

For a full list of local organisations already involved and how to join please visit sandwell.cityofsanctuary.org or email info@sandwell.cityofsanctuary.org