Plans for Wrexham and Wales to Become Areas of Sanctuary

A new action plan has been launched by the Welsh Labour Government aimed at tackling inequalities and poverty experienced by refugees and asylum seekers in Wales.

The ‘Nation of Sanctuary – Refugee and Asylum Seeker Plan’ is the latest step towards the Government’s ambition of making Wales a nation of sanctuary for all who choose to make it their home.

It renews the Welsh Government’s commitment of working with the UK Government, local authorities, the Welsh Refugee Coalition and people seeking sanctuary themselves to achieve equality of opportunities, including access to resources and mainstream services.

Wrexham’s Assembly Member, Lesley Griffiths has welcomed the new national action plan that coincides with the initiation of a campaign fronted by TCC (Together Creating Communities) to make Wrexham a Town of Sanctuary.

Local groups and individuals will attend an event this Friday (1^st February) at Ty Pawb where people will pledge their support for the vision of Wrexham as a Town of Sanctuary, welcoming those fleeing violence and persecution in their own countries.

Lesley Griffiths AM is attending TCC’s event on Friday and said: “Wales is a friendly nation and has a proud history of welcoming refugees.  This renewed action plan will not only support those seeking sanctuary but also recognises the valuable skills and experiences refugees and asylum seekers can bring with them to enhance Welsh communities.”

“Making Wrexham a Town of Sanctuary is an admirable initiative that will help promote kindness and encourage working in partnership.  It’s an endeavour is fully support and I hope the Welsh Government’s latest announcement will harness and solidify support for TCC’s campaign here in Wrexham.”

According to the Welsh Government, Welsh communities have already welcomed close to 1,000 Syrian refugees as part of the UK Government’s Syrian Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme, and the Community Support scheme, along with many more asylum seekers from across the world.

The ‘Nation of Sanctuary – Refugee and Asylum Seeker Plan’ highlights a range of targeted support including mental health services which address the difficult past experiences of those seeking sanctuary and introducing actions that safeguard and protect vulnerable individuals and children.