Community Group of the Year nomination – Lichfield District City of Sanctuary

Community Group of the Year nomination – Lichfield District City of Sanctuary

A Lichfield charity supported around 500 vulnerable people, predominantly asylum seekers and refugees, last year.

Lichfield District City of Sanctuary was established after a community meeting six years ago, where a small group of the city’s residents committed towards the recognition of Lichfield as a City of Sanctuary.

It’s part of the British charitable organisation City of Sanctuary that is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025. It is building a movement of welcome across the UK and Ireland by coordinating and supporting networks of community groups.

Lichfield District City of Sanctuary’s aim is to make Lichfield a welcoming and supportive city that provides support and sanctuary to those that need it.

With more than 100 members and an action group of 15, the charity has increased its activities in recent years, especially since the escalation of the troubles in Ukraine. It looks to relieve the needs of refugees and asylum seekers resident in Lichfield and the surrounding areas by providing a network, services and support, and also promotes equality and diversity for the public benefit.

Lichfield District City of Sanctuary establishes and promotes activities to foster support and understanding between residents of Lichfield and the surrounding areas, including community events, campaigns, exhibitions, workshops, classes, visits and meetings.

The charity is helping to make Lichfield a city that supports newcomers, especially those who face discrimination and inclusion, and challenges visions of Lichfield that exclude any individuals and groups that live and work there.

Nigel Gann, the charity’s Executive Secretary, said: “Our original aim was very simple – to help to build a more welcoming community for people rebuilding their lives here.

“Lichfield District City of Sanctuary is comprised of so many great people who are stepping up to support people seeking sanctuary in our communities. It’s both heartening and humbling to see.

“We want to provide not only practical support, but produce an example of what a positive, welcoming place really looks like and means. I’m so proud to see the way that so many people are now genuinely welcoming, kind and how they demonstrate it. I’m also proud that the charity is giving people the opportunity to show kindness.”

Lichfield District City of Sanctuary has been nominated in the Community Group of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards.