Ealing Council has been awarded ‘Borough of Sanctuary’ status by the City of Sanctuary organisation in recognition of its work to welcome and support people fleeing war and persecution.
The news was announced at a full council meeting on Tuesday (8 April), the same day that the council launched its Borough of Sanctuary Strategy. The strategy, which was developed with residents and voluntary, community and faith organisations in the borough, sets out the council’s commitment and action plan to ensure support and advice is provided to those most in need and in an efficient way.
Funding to deliver the action plan has come from central government. It includes a Community Fund for grassroots community groups to deliver projects supporting sanctuary-seeking participants.
‘A sense of belonging’
Council leader Peter Mason said: “Ealing is home to one of the most diverse communities in the UK and has a history of welcoming people. Our neighbourhoods are full of people who have made our borough their home, whether they have travelled from other parts of the UK or from overseas. We are a proud borough of multiple identities, national origins, culture, language, and beliefs, united together in a common sense of ownership and belonging.
“Our 7 towns tell the story of countless generations of families who have made the move to our great city, whether seeking out a better life or fleeing from war or persecution. By becoming a Borough of Sanctuary, we set out our commitment to create a place for people who are fleeing violence and persecution.”
Blerina Hashani, the council’s cabinet member for thriving communities, said: “I am proud that we can officially call ourselves a Borough of Sanctuary. The accreditation is a recognition of all the amazing work already being done to support sanctuary seekers in the borough who are looking for safety and a new start. I would like to thank all the community organisations and especially the sanctuary seekers who shared their experiences and worked with us to shape the strategy.”
Among the refugees who shared their experiences was Layla, a mother of 4 who has made her home in the borough since fleeing the civil war in Syria in 2018 with her family. Layla is now training as a teaching assistant and volunteers as an Ealing Council Community Champion and as a mentor to support other Syrian refugees. Layla shares her story as part of the strategy.
She said: “I often witness refugees achieving remarkable things as they strive to rebuild better lives for themselves and their families. This is important because there is always something missing when you begin again in a new country. I think that with resilience and kindness, we can all contribute to a more inclusive and supportive society for those seeking sanctuary.”
The Borough of Sanctuary Strategy is available on the council’s website.
The award lasts for 3 years and then will be re-assessed and re-awarded.
