Lewisham has hosted London’s Deputy Mayor for Communities and Social Justice to mark the launch of a refreshed version of the council’s ‘Borough of Sanctuary’ campaign, writes Maya Sgaravato-Grant…
Dr Debbie Weekes-Bernard met with mothers who had experienced displacement, as well as frontline support workers and community partners, in an attempt to raise awareness of the experiences and needs of refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants in the borough and in the capital as a whole.
The Deputy Mayor later said that she was ‘honoured’ to have the opportunity to speak to residents and community, and see how the campaign operated.
She said: “Rising global tensions are creating uncertainty for many, so as we build a better London for all, it’s more important than ever that our capital’s communities feel loved and wanted.
“Lewisham is doing a fantastic job of ensuring those seeking sanctuary are welcomed and supported to thrive.”
Lewisham is the UK’s first formally recognised ‘Borough of Sanctuary’, reflecting the council’s commitment to going beyond its statutory duties to provide a welcoming environment for those seeking sanctuary.
The refreshed campaign seeks to grow public understanding of the meaning of sanctuary, widen participation for refugees, asylum seekers and migrants, and celebrate the contribution of sanctuary seekers to the area.
Councillor Oana Olaru-Holmes, Cabinet Member for Refugees, Safer Lewisham and Equalities said: “Our new campaign responds to rising pressures on sanctuary seekers.
“We know sanctuary seekers value kindness and dignity, and today’s meeting and campaign demonstrate our shared commitment to providing both.”
Relatedarticles
Beyond raising awareness, Lewisham Council has also sought to highlight the importance of trauma-informed and early childhood development support, as well as strong community connection, in helping vulnerable people in moments of crisis.
