Initially, Jim Stewart (Evangelical Alliance) and Reynette Roberts (Oasis Cardiff) raised the awareness and interest in Cardiff City of Sanctuary by holding networking lunch events (5 in total). At a networking event on Friday 3rd February 2012, Siân Summers-Rees (DPIA) was invited to speak about her experiences of Swansea City of Sanctuary. After the meeting in February 2012, 15 people committed themselves to building the Cardiff City of Sanctuary movement. These networking events have been instrumental in building support and interest in the movement.
In 2012 a strong steering group of individuals and representatives from various organisations revived the process and the Cardiff City of Sanctuary movement was officially launched the pledge in December 2012 at the inaugural Wales Migration conference. The Steering Group in Cardiff then begun to work on behalf of its supporting organisations.
The Steering Group in Cardiff comprises on behalf of an increasing number of supporting organisations. This local partnership has helped to cement the working relationships between organisations that support people seeking sanctuary. The Cardiff City of Sanctuary Steering Group is now confident that it has met its set objectives and is able to demonstrate that it is committed to living and spreading the core sanctuary values.
The group meets on a monthly at Oasis Cardiff and anyone is invited. If you wish to join the group email us
The strategic vision:
Essentially within our strategy we set out to work towards the vision first developed in Sheffield to recognise Cardiff as a city which is welcoming to all, is proud to offer sanctuary to those fleeing violence or persecution, and celebrates the contribution of asylum seekers and refugees to city life.
The strategy objectives:
The group developed its strategic objectives based on the six action points whilst considering the three core values as outlined by the National City of Sanctuary.
Core values:-·
- Learn about what it means to be seeking sanctuary; and be actively involved in awareness raising.
- Embed take positive action to make welcome and inclusion part of the values of your organisation or community, to support sanctuary seekers and refugees, and to include them in your activities.
- Share your vision and achievements; let others know about the positive contribution refugees make to our society and the benefits of a welcoming culture to everyone.