Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council

For immediate release

Council commits to making Tees Valley an Area of Sanctuary

REDCAR & Cleveland Borough Council has shown its commitment to making Tees Valley a recognised “Area of Sanctuary” for refugees.

A motion, which was moved by Cllr Ian Jeffrey at a recent full council meeting, stated its support for the initiative to “make the Tees Valley a recognised ‘Area of Sanctuary’ that welcomes those fleeing violence and persecution in their own countries.”

Recognising the positive contribution that refugees and people seeking sanctuary bring to the Tees Valley, the council has committed to taking practical steps to welcome and include refugees in its activities.

Cllr Ian Jeffrey, ward member for South Bank at Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council said:

“We are so pleased this motion was received with such support and we will be actively seeking ways of supporting refugees and those fleeing from persecution wherever and whenever we can.

“The council will now look to meet with the Tees Valley of Sanctuary group to discuss ideas on how it can turn its pledge into practical action.”

Pete Widlinski, Tees Valley of Sanctuary Coordinator said, ‘This is excellent news.  City of sanctuary groups are being established all over the UK from Cornwall to the Orkneys, and having the support of local councils is crucial in the development of a culture of welcome for those fleeing persecution and seeking a safe place.

“Signing the resolution of support gives a clear public message that refugees are welcome here: building on our longstanding record of welcoming the stranger.” Redcar BC sign Sanctuary pledge 2015