Who We Are
Stockport City of Sanctuary is a grassroots movement focused on making Stockport a welcoming and safe place for refugees and sanctuary seekers. We are part of the City of Sanctuary UK movement, which spans across communities in the UK. This movement is united by a commitment to inclusion, compassion, and dignity for those seeking sanctuary.
We believe in the power of community and that sanctuary seekers should be welcomed, supported, and celebrated as valued members of society. Together, we will build a town that stands against prejudice, where everyone can thrive.
Our Vision
We envision a Stockport where everyone, regardless of background, receives respect and dignity. A place where refugees and sanctuary seekers find safety and opportunities to contribute and become part of the community.
Our Mission
We work collaboratively with local communities, organisations, and individuals to achieve the following goals:
- Promote Inclusion: We help refugees and sanctuary seekers access essential services, education, employment, and cultural opportunities.
- Foster Understanding: We challenge myths, prejudices, and discrimination through awareness campaigns, workshops, and educational programs.
- Empower Sanctuary Seekers: We ensure that refugees and sanctuary seekers have a meaningful voice in planning and implementing initiatives.
What We Do
Our efforts are driven by six core objectives:
1. Welcoming Sanctuary Seekers
We work with local communities, businesses, and faith groups to create a network of support for sanctuary seekers.
2. Sanctuary Awards Program
We support organisations that demonstrate exemplary commitment to inclusion and hospitality by awarding them the Sanctuary Award.
3. Advocacy
We engage with the Stockport City Council and other stakeholders to secure formal recognition of Stockport as a City of Sanctuary.
4. Community Events
We host workshops, cultural celebrations, and public forums that foster understanding and solidarity.
5. Raising Awareness
We use various media to highlight the challenges refugees and sanctuary seekers face, while also celebrating their contributions to society.
6. Building Capacity
We strengthen local groups and volunteers, enabling them to provide meaningful assistance to sanctuary seekers.
Why It Matters
Every year, people fleeing war, persecution, and injustice arrive in the UK seeking sanctuary. For many, their new community becomes the first step in rebuilding their lives. However, they often face challenges such as discrimination, isolation, and systemic barriers, which make integration difficult.
We believe it is our collective responsibility to ensure that refugees and sanctuary seekers find not just safety but also hope and opportunities to flourish. By working together, we can create a Stockport that leads by example, demonstrating compassion and inclusion.
Our Values
We are committed to:
- Compassion: We approach all our activities with empathy, understanding, and kindness.
- Dignity: We treat every individual with respect and fairness.
- Collaboration: Partnerships are at the heart of our work. Together, we achieve more.
- Empowerment: We strive to uplift sanctuary seekers and give them a voice in shaping their future.
The Stockport City of Sanctuary is Committed to the City of Sanctuary Values
- Inclusiveness: We welcome and respect people from all backgrounds, placing the highest value on diversity and committing to equality.
- Openness: We foster a culture of collaboration within the City of Sanctuary network and with others.
- Participation: We value and recognise the contributions of people seeking sanctuary, ensuring they participate in decision-making at all levels.
- Inspire: We work with enthusiasm, determined to surpass past achievements. We act as a catalyst for change, always open to new ideas.
- Integrity: We adhere to the highest standards of honesty and behaviour, always acting in the best interests of people seeking sanctuary.
City of Sanctuary UK: Achievements
Over the years, City of Sanctuary UK has partnered with local councils, organisations, and individuals to achieve the following:
- Host workshops and events attended by hundreds of people.
- Establish sanctuary hubs that provide essential support services to refugees and sanctuary seekers.
- Launch the Sanctuary Awards Program, inspiring local schools, businesses, and charities to take proactive steps in welcoming sanctuary seekers.
Join Us
We invite everyone—individuals, organisations, and institutions—to join our mission. Together, we can make Stockport a beacon of hope, compassion, and inclusion.
Email us: [email protected]