City of Sanctuary UK and SBC Theatre recently met with a senior arts and culture policy advisor to discuss the vital role of our Sanctuary in Arts network. The arts play a crucial role in supporting people seeking santuary – we’re calling for this Government to recognise and support this work.
This meeting was initiated following a letter coordinated by us from members of the Sanctuary in Arts network to the Secretary of State for Culture:
We have seen firsthand how damaging the hostile environment has been: people re-traumatised by being housed in wholly unsuitable hotels; families uprooted suddenly and relocated with no notice; others forced into hiding after being threatened with detention. These are cruel policies that see people punished simply for seeking sanctuary.
We know that arts institutions can play a hugely important role in supporting new arrivals to thrive whilst healing the divisions now widespread in our communities. We know because we do this work every day.
Through our work we support the integration and wellbeing of tens of thousands of people within the asylum system, whether it’s through performance, creative writing, art classes, filmmaking, dance, video games, sewing groups, public speaking training or conversation and social clubs; our work makes communities stronger, improves people’s mental and physical health and takes pressure off ESOL waiting lists.
As the Secretary of State for Culture, we ask that you recognise the power of this creative work in supporting new arrivals. In the wake of the far right riots this summer we hope it is clear this work is more necessary than ever.
As a compassionate person, we ask you to fight for a UK that welcomes and protects people fleeing torture, war and persecution – irrespective of where they are from or how they reached our shores; a UK that is proud of its diversity and recognises and celebrates how we are enriched by new arrivals.
The arts have long served as a universal language, transcending barriers and creating connections between people from all walks of life. For those seeking sanctuary, artistic and cultural spaces offer far more than entertainment – they provide essential support across multiple dimensions:
- Wellbeing Support: Creative expression offers therapeutic benefits and emotional outlets
- Language Development: Arts engagement naturally facilitates language learning through informal, engaging interactions
- Employment Opportunities: Skills development and networking within the cultural sector can lead to valuable career pathways
- Community Integration: Shared cultural experiences help build understanding and connection
The Sanctuary in Arts Movement
At its core, Sanctuary in Arts is a movement dedicated to using artistic and cultural platforms to welcome people seeking sanctuary. This initiative recognises that galleries, theatres, museums, and cinemas are vital community spaces that can foster solidarity, understanding, and compassion.
Leading this charge is Stand & Be Counted (SBC Theatre), which holds the distinction of being the UK’s first Theatre Company of Sanctuary. Their pioneering work demonstrates how cultural institutions can can, and should, lead the way in creating welcoming communities.
The recent meeting with the policy advisor underscores a crucial message: the government must recognise and support the invaluable role that arts and culture play in supporting people seeking sanctuary. We know that if this government are going to stay true to their manifesto promises of clearing the asylum backlog, getting people out of asylum accomodation and into work, they will need the support of Sanctuary in Arts organisations.
Getting Involved
For cultural institutions looking to make a difference, City of Sanctuary UK offers support and guidance in creating welcoming environments. Whether you’re a small gallery or a major cultural center, there are meaningful ways to participate in this movement.
To learn more about how your organisation can become involved in the Sanctuary in Arts network, visit arts.cityofsanctuary.org.
Looking Forward
As this movement continues to grow, it demonstrates the transformative power of arts and culture in building more welcoming communities. Through continued collaboration between cultural institutions, advocacy groups, and policy makers, we can work toward a future where everyone feels welcome and valued in our shared cultural spaces.