City of Sanctuary UK is a charitable organisation that coordinates, develops and supports a network of individuals and organisations working to build a culture of welcome for people seeking sanctuary.
We support local groups, councils, schools, universities, libraries, faith institutions, arts organisations and many others to create inclusive and welcoming communities across the UK.
About Our Work
What is the City of Sanctuary movement?
The City of Sanctuary movement is a growing network of local groups and organisations committed to making their town, city or village a welcoming place for everyone, particularly people seeking sanctuary.
Each local group works in line with our shared vision and values, while responding to the specific needs and opportunities within their community.
What are City of Sanctuary groups?
There are over 70 local City of Sanctuary groups across the UK. They vary in size and structure – some are registered charities, while others are volunteer-led community groups.
Activities differ from place to place, but all groups work to:
- Promote a culture of welcome
- Build connections between communities
- Support local organisations to become places of safety and inclusion
Local groups are independently run but align with the national vision and values of City of Sanctuary UK.
Who is a “person seeking sanctuary”?
We use the term “person seeking sanctuary” to emphasise dignity and humanity rather than legal status.
It reflects our belief that people should be recognised first and foremost as individuals – neighbours, colleagues, parents, children and friends – rather than being defined by labels or paperwork. Our focus is on welcome, safety and belonging for people rebuilding their lives.
Sanctuary Awards
What are Sanctuary Awards?
Our Sanctuary Award programme recognises organisations that go above and beyond to welcome and include people seeking sanctuary.
We accept applications from:
- Universities
- Further Education Colleges
- Schools
- Local Authorities
- Faith Institutions
- Libraries
- Arts and cultural organisations
- Maternity Projects
Awarded organisations demonstrate commitment to learning, embedding inclusive practices, and sharing their message of welcome.
How does an organisation apply for a Sanctuary Award?
Organisations complete an application demonstrating how they:
- Learn about the experiences of people seeking sanctuary
- Embed inclusive practices
- Share their commitment publicly
We provide guidance and support throughout the process. Full details are available in our dedicated programme FAQs.
Our Role and Approach
Does City of Sanctuary provide legal advice, housing or casework?
No. We are a movement-building organisation and do not provide direct legal advice, housing support or casework services.
We focus on culture change and community-building. For specialist support, individuals should contact refugee support or legal organisations in their area.
What is City of Sanctuary’s political stance?
We are a registered charity and are therefore non-partisan.
Our focus is on promoting dignity, inclusion and welcome for people seeking sanctuary. We do not align with political parties and do not influence decisions about immigration control, asylum dispersal or housing placements.
Does the programme affect dispersal areas or housing decisions?
No. Decisions about who enters the UK and where individuals are housed are made by the UK Government. We have no role, knowledge or influence in these processes.
Our work begins once people are part of local communities, supporting positive inclusion and connection.
Funding and Governance
How is City of Sanctuary UK funded?
City of Sanctuary UK is a small independent charity and receives no government funding. We are funded through granted from trusts and foundations, donations from individuals and fees from elements of our Sanctuary Award programme.
Are local City of Sanctuary groups independent?
Yes. Local groups are independently governed and responsible for their own activities. They operate in alignment with the shared values and principles of the national movement.
Why is it called “City” of Sanctuary if you work in towns and villages?
The movement began in a city, but it has always been open to towns, villages and regions. “City of Sanctuary” reflects our origins, while our work now takes place in communities of all sizes across the UK.
International Context
Is City of Sanctuary UK connected to the US “Cities of Sanctuary”?
No. City of Sanctuary UK is entirely separate and unrelated to organisations or initiatives using similar names in the United States.
See our Councils of Sanctuary FAQ
See our Schools of Sanctuary FAQ