Council of Sanctuary status

The formal recognition of the Council's support for the sanctuary-seeking population followed a comprehensive evaluation by City of Sanctuary UK. 

City of Sanctuary UK coordinates, supports and grows networks of welcome for refugees and asylum seekers. It works with individuals, groups and organisations in every sector across the UK to encourage inclusivity, solidarity and compassion for people from a forced displacement background.

The organisation's Sanctuary Award recognises organisations who go above and beyond to welcome people seeking sanctuary.

Making Perth and Kinross a place of sanctuary

Perth and Council's vision is that Perth & Kinross is a place where 'everyone can live well free from poverty and inequalities'

In recent years Perth and Kinross has welcomed different groups of people to Perth and Kinross as they seek sanctuary from war, persecution or other troubles in their home countries.

We have worked hard to make the area as safe and welcoming as possible for people coming here under extremely difficult circumstances. 

UK City of Sanctuary status can provide us with support and access to a range of partners, good practice, advice and other benefits that will support our officers working with these groups, and to ensure we are offering all the available support and assistance for a positive integration and resettlement into our communities.

Our commitment

As a Council of Sanctuary, we will:

• Commit to resettle 20 sanctuary-seeking people people per year. This work will be fully funded from the tariff funding that comes with the resettled people with no impact on Council resources
•  Continue to lead a multi-agency response with public sector partners and third sector and community groups who are members of our local Community Integration Network.
• Support these groups to ensure they can continue to give a voice to those with lived experience seeking sanctuary in our area.
• Work hard to continue to be seen as a recognised 'area of sanctuary' for all people coming here seeking refuge or asylum.
• Continue to provide a supportive and positive response to people seeking sanctuary despite the ongoing financial and social pressures and challenges.
• Continue to be a visible anti-racist local authority particularly working with our young people in schools.
• Be an active participant in the national No Recourse to Public Funds Working Group to improve and simplify the process for those requiring access to funding.
• Seek feedback from all to ensure our response and approach continues to meet need.
• • Ensure our work, progress and outcomes are reported annually to the Housing and Social Wellbeing Committee and regular updates are provided to the Equalities Strategic Forum.