On 24th March Bradford Council passed the following motion, supporting Bradford’s bid to become a recognized ‘City of Sanctuary’

“This Council notes that:

City of Sanctuary is a national movement to build a culture of hospitality for people seeking sanctuary in the UK .  Its goal is to create a network of towns and cities throughout the UK which are proud to be places of safety and which include people seeking sanctuary fully in the life of their communities

This Council therefore recognises the contribution of asylum-seekers and refugees to the City of Bradford and is committed to welcoming and including them in our activities and supports Bradford becoming a recognised ‘City of Sanctuary ’ for refugees and asylum-seekers.

The Council also recognises that a comprehensive, co-ordinated and forward-looking approach is needed if City of Sanctuary and the management of other groups of people moving to the District are to be delivered effectively and appropriate support provided to new and existing communities.

The Council therefore requests the Executive to produce and adopt a formal strategy for New Arrivals into the District as a matter of urgency.”

The final paragraphs were added by the Labour group, moved by Councillor Imran Hussain and seconded by Councillor Flowers. The original motion was tabled by Liberal Democrat Cllr John Watmough.

With the backing of over 100 local groups, organisations and businesses, the local campaign will soon be approaching the national City of Sanctuary movement to seek formal ‘City of Sanctuary’ status.