Independent Sanctuary Commission launch postponed

Over the past five months, Nottingham Citizens have been carrying out research into the experience of the refugee community in Nottingham. Over this time, our team of 40 leaders have held public hearings, read through written submissions from expert bodies in the field and surveyed 280 refugee and asylum seekers directly to hear their voices and learn from the tensions they have faced.

This research was to culminate in a report which was due to launch on 18 October setting out recommendations and the ground work for precedent-setting change in the sector. However, due to the sensitivity, complexity and capacity of the issues we have decided to postpone the launch of the until late November.

This gives us time to do the issues justice and bring the change those who have fled war to seek sanctuary in our great city need. It also gives us more time to refine the recommendations and engage constructively with decision-makers.

We are very sorry for the inconvenience that may be caused by the lateness of this decision. Please know this is not something we did lightly but we believe was in the best interests of the sanctuary work and, most importantly, for those affected directly by these issues.

Leaders in Nottingham Citizens institutions who had organised the turnout of their members on 18 October should inform them that the launch event has been postponed and will not take place on 18 October. We will be in touch soon with news on a new date and time for the launch, which will probably be at the end of November.

If you have any questions please email Luke Goss luke@heartchurch.co.uk

With thanks,

Luke Goss and Sheila Marriott,
Co-Chairs of Nottingham Citizens