Carlisle continues bid to become nationally recognised for welcoming refugees

Carlisle is continuing it's campaign be become nationally recognised as a 'City of Sanctuary' for refugees and asylum seekers

The 'City of Sanctuary' movement began in 2005. It promotes making UK locations welcoming, safe spaces for everyone, including people who are forced to flee their countries because of violence and persecution. The aim is to ensure that all refugees and asylum seekers feel safe resettling in the UK.

The Carlisle Refugee Action Group is involved in the drive to gain official City of Sanctuary' status.

Cumbria has a long history of welcoming and supporting people forced to flee their home countries.

Earlier this year the county marked 75 years since the arrival of the 'Windermere Children'; 300 young Jewish holocaust survivors who were relocated to the Lake District after World War II.

Cumbria Refugee Action Group is working closely with Cumbria County Council’s Resettlement Team and other partners to help 23 families successfully settle into the Carlisle community. Additional support is also in place for other refugees and asylum seekers living in the city.

The Carlisle City of Sanctuary steering group says it will ensure that the doors of Carlisle are to those in need.