Lewisham hosts London’s Deputy Mayor for frontline Borough of Sanctuary visit
The Deputy Mayor met with mothers with lived experience of displacement, frontline practitioners and community partners, who shared how trauma-informed support, early years interventions and strong local networks can provide stability during moments of crisis.
The visit comes as Lewisham launches a refreshed Borough of Sanctuary campaign. Building on its status as the UK’s first formally recognised Borough of Sanctuary, the campaign will strengthen public understanding of sanctuary, broaden participation and celebrate the contributions of refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. This status reflects the Council’s commitment to go beyond statutory duties by working with partners and the wider community to provide a safe, welcoming environment where sanctuary seekers can thrive.
Lewisham’s approach is shaped by close collaboration with voluntary sector partners, whose frontline workers emphasise the value of coordinated, compassionate support. The Deputy Mayor’s visit showcased the strength of these partnerships and the real life impact they have for families rebuilding their lives.
London’s Deputy Mayor for Communities and Social Justice, Dr Debbie Weekes-Bernard, said: “I was honoured to visit Lewisham to meet residents and community leaders, and to see how the Borough of Sanctuary initiative is benefitting Londoners. Rising global tensions are creating uncertainty for many, so as we build a better London for all, it’s more important than ever that our capital’s communities feel loved and wanted.
Working in collaboration with partners and voluntary organisations, Lewisham is doing a fantastic job of ensuring those seeking sanctuary are welcomed and supported to thrive.”
Councillor Oana Olaru-Holmes, Cabinet Member for Cabinet Member for Refugees, Safer Lewisham and Equalities said: “It was great to see practitioners demonstrates how strong partnership working between Lewisham Council and voluntary organisations helps people access wraparound support when they need it most from emotional wellbeing to early childhood development and community connection.
Our new campaign, developed with partners including the Refugee Council, AFRIL and LRMN, responds to rising pressures on sanctuary seekers. We know sanctuary seekers value kindness and dignity, and today’s meeting and campaign demonstrate our shared commitment to providing both.”