Saving Sanctuary

"The development and expansion of the ‘City of Sanctuary' movement is
expressly to be encouraged as one way of forming a centre ground for
sanctuary at a local level", according to The Independent Asylum Commission.

The IAC has just published the first report of its conclusions and recommendations for reform of the UK asylum system: ‘Saving Sanctuary' (available at www.independentasylumcommission.org.uk)

These recommendations are intended to offer policy-makers a set of well-researched and achievable actions to create a more just, humane and effective system for people seeking sanctuary in the UK.

The report is well-timed for us, as on 4th June we will be holding our first national conference for new City of Sanctuary groups, with representatives from over 15 towns and cities around the UK. The conference will also be attended by the new Leader of Sheffield City Council, Paul Scriven, and the Chief Executive of the Refugee Council, Donna Covey. For more information see our website: www.cityofsanctuary.org

Sanctuary Café

We are planning to set up a refugee-run café at Victoria Hall in the town centre, offering meals from around the world, internet access and social space. As a trial run, we will be serving food every lunchtime during Refugee Week (16th-20th June). We are looking for volunteers either to help with cooking and serving the food during Refugee Week, or to join a steering group for the long-term café project. Anyone with catering experience or enthusiasm for cooking is especially welcome.
Contact: nicola@cityofsanctuary.org

‘Open Democracy' coming to Sheffield

The widely-read internet magazine Open Democracy (www.opendemocracy.net) is coming to Sheffield to do a series of interviews with people seeking sanctuary and their local supporters on 2nd June. If you have an inspiring, exciting or urgent story you would like to reach a global readership please contact us: craig@cityofsanctuary.org

Free Writing Workshop

Friday 30th May, 10am-12 noon
The Northern Refugee Centre, Scotia Works, Leadmill Road, S1 4SE
For asylum-seekers, refugees and other new arrivals to the UK.
Organised by the NRC and Signposts Writing Development Project.
For more details contact: Ralph Hancock: 07854852905

ASSIST fundraiser concert

Saturday 31st May, 7pm
Quaker Meeting House, St James Street, S1
Suggested donation £5

A concert of classical music featuring Jon Draper on cello with piano
accompaniment.
Song without Words- Mendelssohn
Sicilienne - Maria Theresia Von Paradis
Romance - Saint Saens
Tarantella - Squire
Elegy - Faure
Sonata in D Minor - De Fesch
Suite No 2 in D Minor - Bach

Volunteers Needed by Refugee Council

Volunteer open evening Thursday 5 June, 6.30-8pm
The Circle Building, Division Street, Sheffield (behind Costa Coffee)
The Refugee Council are looking to recruit volunteers to support the latest group of Karen refugees from Burma, who came to the city in October and November last year.
Please contact Jennifer Wood on 0114 272 4196 or via email at jennifer.wood@refugeecouncil.org.uk

No Deportations to War Zones

Tuesday 3rd June, 7.30pm
SADACCA, The Wicker, S1
Public meeting to oppose deportations to countries experiencing armed conflict.
For further details, contact Richard on 07790 612 473 or richard@southyorkshireacts.org.uk