Stockport City of Sanctuary

Welcome to City of Sanctuary. 

Stockport, 22nd November 2024 – Stockport City of Sanctuary has proudly launched its much-anticipated Multi-Agency Drop-In, a collaborative initiative designed to provide vital support and guidance to refugees and sanctuary seekers in the local community. The drop-in, hosted at the Tiviot Dale Methodist Church every Monday and Friday, marks a significant milestone in Stockport’s commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive town for those seeking sanctuary.

A Safe Space for Sanctuary Seekers
The Multi-Agency Drop-In serves as a one-stop hub where individuals can access a wide range of services, from housing and legal advice to healthcare and language support. The initiative brings together local charities, community organisations, health professionals, and council representatives under one roof, ensuring sanctuary seekers can easily connect with the support they need.

The drop-in has been designed to be welcoming, accessible, and inclusive. Alongside practical assistance, it also offers a space for sanctuary seekers to build connections, share experiences, and feel part of a supportive community.

Supporting Dignity and Inclusion
At the heart of the launch event, founder David Mutai emphasised the importance of the drop-in as a resource that empowers refugees and sanctuary seekers. “This initiative is about more than just services—it’s about providing dignity, respect, and a sense of belonging to people who have endured unimaginable hardships. Stockport is committed to being a place where everyone can thrive.”

Collaboration at Its Core
The success of the Multi-Agency Drop-In has been made possible through collaboration with key local organisations, including:

• OneWorld UnityBridge CIC
• Stockport Refugee Support Group
• Stockport United for Migrants and Refugees
• Stockport Methodist Circuit- Tiviot Dale
• The Citizens Advice Bureau
• Refugee Action
• Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust 
• RefMentors
• North West Regional Strategic Migration Partnership

Each partner brings unique expertise, ensuring service users receive holistic support tailored to their needs.

What the Drop-In Offers

• Housing Assistance: Support with finding temporary or permanent accommodation.
• Legal Advice: Guidance and signposting on immigration and asylum protection.
• Healthcare Access: Information on GP registration, mental health resources, and specialist services.
• Employment and Education Support: Help with CV writing, job applications, and enrolling in courses.
• Language Support: Access to ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes and interpretation services.
• School Support: Assisting families in overcoming challenges that impact their children’s education, ensuring every child can thrive academically and socially

Voices of Sanctuary Seekers
The event also featured personal stories from sanctuary seekers who have benefited from Stockport City of Sanctuary’s efforts. “I felt lost when I arrived in Stockport,” said Maluach, a refugee from Sudan. “The support I’ve received has changed my life. This drop-in will make it so much easier for people like me to find help and hope.”

Looking Ahead- Refugee Week 2025

The Multi-Agency Drop-In is the latest step in Stockport City of Sanctuary’s ongoing mission to make Stockport a place of welcome and inclusion. The City of Stockport Sanctuary is already planning further initiatives to build on this success, including workshops, cultural exchange events, and advocacy campaigns. 

Refugee Week 2025 Theme: “Community As A Superpower”

After a successful Refugee Week 2024, Stockport City of Sanctuary is excited to celebrate Refugee Week 2025, from 16–22 June, under this year’s inspiring theme: Community as a Superpower. This theme highlights the extraordinary strength found in collective action and shared kindness, reminding us of the power we hold when we come together.

Get Involved

Stockport City of Sanctuary invites all members of the community to contribute to this vital work. Whether through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading the word, every effort helps create a more compassionate and inclusive Stockport.

For more information about the Multi-Agency Drop-In or to get involved, visit https://stockport.cityofsanctuary.org or contact us at [email protected].

Together, we can make Stockport a true City of Sanctuary.