District offers sanctuary to those fleeing violence and persecution

Councillors last night (Thursday 30 October) agreed to build on the district’s long and proud history of welcoming those fleeing violence, conflict and persecution.

Full Council backed a Notice of Motion proposed by Cllr Pat Edwards and seconded by Cllr Peter Old calling for the district to officially become a District of Sanctuary and seek City of Sanctuary status.

The motion said: “Canterbury District has a long and proud history of welcoming individuals and families fleeing violence, conflict and persecution.

“We are a stronger, more diverse community because of the contributions of people from all backgrounds.

“The council has an excellent track record in delivering integration services through the UK Resettlement Scheme, Afghan Resettlement Programme and Homes for Ukraine Scheme.

“The council works closely with partners in the statutory and voluntary/community sector and there is a robust framework already in place to support the development of further initiatives.

“This council reaffirms its commitment to a culture of welcome and respect for all, especially those seeking sanctuary.

“The council recognises that a coordinated and forward-looking approach is needed to support the welfare of people moving into the district and promote community cohesion.

“Seeking official City of Sanctuary status for the whole district and joining the Local Authority network will start this process, working towards greater inclusion and equality for people seeking sanctuary.”

Councillors agreed to:

• seek recognition as a District of Sanctuary
• sign up to the City of Sanctuary Charter and its principles and values
• join the City of Sanctuary local authority network
• continue working with key partners, community groups and people who have escaped persecution to establish a timetable and action plan for achieving District of Sanctuary status
• continue to work with key partners and community groups to create greater public awareness of the needs and issues of people faced by those seeking sanctuary across the whole district, through a range of initiatives, projects and activities

A report will be brought back to Cabinet and Full Council with an action plan outlining the actions that need to be taken to achieve District of Sanctuary status.

You can watch the Full Council meeting.

Published: 31 October 2025