Lewisham Council have just welcomed their 100th family through their Refugee Resettlement Programme! That’s one hundred families who have fled war and persecution finally able to rebuild in safety. As the country’s first Borough of Sanctuary they’re resettling families from Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan.At a celebration event last week, Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham said: “Lewisham is an open borough and is leading the way in London and nationally with our refugee re-settlement programme.We believe that diversity enhances our community and this was a lovely opportunity to come together, celebrate and give a very warm welcome to our sanctuary seekers in Lewisham.”

 

Councillor Juliet Campbell, cabinet member for communities, refugees and well-being, said: “We are very proud of the work that we and our partners are doing in Lewisham to support all sanctuary seekers.

At a time of increased pressure and negative narrative from central Government, we celebrate and promote the welcome contribution of people seeking sanctuary in our borough and prove that diverse communities like ours can be both happy and cohesive.”

Lewisham was named as the UK’s first Borough of Sanctuary in May 2021. The council have also committed to giving support and care to child asylum seekers without parents. Lewisham has signed up to accept 100 more children over the next 10 years.

This has been a big community effort with local City of Sanctuary group Lewisham Refugee and Migrant Network.

Lewisham’s resettlement programme is truly leading the way.

Is your local authority a Council of Sanctuary? Find out more and get involved by clicking here.