Lambeth Council has secured the Borough of Sanctuary status from the City of Sanctuary UK organisation which is working to build a more welcoming UK for people forced to flee their homes.
Cllr Marcia Cameron and Cllr Jim Dickson, Lambeth’s joint Cabinet Members for Healthier Communities, said: “We’re delighted that the council has achieved this status in partnership with our community. This demonstrates our commitment to humanity, inclusion and that we as a borough will not turn our back on people who have lost everything and need our help.
“Refugees, migrants and those seeking sanctuary have frequently gone through incredible loss and trauma. We stand ready to support them, give people who in many cases have lost everything a fresh start and help them rebuild their shattered lives.”
Our aim is to get individuals and businesses in the borough to join us in putting in place the principles of the Cities of Sanctuary movement:
- Inclusive: We welcome and respect people from all backgrounds, place the highest value on diversity and are committed to equality
- Openness: We are committed to a culture of working collaboratively across the City of Sanctuary networks and in partnership with others
- Participation: We work with people seeking sanctuary and value and recognise the contribution of all. We aspire to ensure people seeking sanctuary are involved in all decision making at all levels and are supported to become leaders in the organisation, networks, and the wider movement
- Inspire: We work with enthusiasm and positivity and are determined to surpass what has already been achieved to welcome refugees and people seeking sanctuary. We act as a catalyst for change by being open to new and innovative ideas and through sharing knowledge gained with others and working in partnership
- Integrity: We aspire to high standards of honesty and behaviour, and always to act in the interests of people seeking sanctuary
To find out more watch the video below with Lambeth Councillor Ibtisam Adem who talks about the importance of securing Borough of Sanctuary status and her own experiences as a refugee:
