Richmond Council is making a significant investment in community support for sanctuary seekers with a new Borough of Sanctuary Grant Scheme.

This scheme will provide funds of up to £10,000 to support local not-for-profit organisations in creating a welcoming environment for those building new lives in the borough. 

 Spokesperson for Communities, Equalities and the Voluntary Sector, Cllr Nancy Baldwin, said: "The voluntary sector is at the heart of what makes Richmond upon Thames a welcoming place for people seeking sanctuary.

"I'm proud to be launching this grant scheme, which is an important part of our Borough of Sanctuary Action Plan and commitment to sanctuary seekers in Richmond.

"Sanctuary seekers living in Richmond borough helped create the priorities of the fund which is designed to address their very particular needs for support." 

 Sanctuary Champion, Cllr Fiona Sacks said: "The Borough of Sanctuary Grant Scheme builds on the fantastic work of partners from across Richmond, which saw us being awarded Borough of Sanctuary status earlier this year. 

"We are particularly looking for the grant scheme to fund projects that celebrate the contribution sanctuary seekers make as well as projects which meet the needs of groups underrepresented in existing services.

"I am also excited that the grant scheme will enable longer-term funding for especially innovative projects." 

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 The Richmond Borough of Sanctuary Grant Scheme provides funds of up to £10,000 for local community groups and organisations to undertake activities for six to twelve months.

Larger grants and multi-year projects may be considered where a clear need and sustainable proposal can be demonstrated. 

 Applicants may decide to create bespoke projects or use the funds to expand existing projects or services.

These initiatives must support refugees and asylum seekers by equipping them with skills for education and employment, by promoting their wellbeing, by providing guidance to navigate UK systems or by celebrating their contributions to community integration. 

 Richmond Council is hosting two Meet the Funder sessions on Wednesday 6 November and Thursday 14 November 2024 for interested organisations to hear about the grant scheme.

Sign up to attend session 1 here and session 2 here.

The deadline to apply for the Borough of Sanctuary Grant Scheme is Sunday 19 January 2025. Successful applicants will be informed by February 2025.   

 Get more guidance on eligibility and how to apply to the Borough of Sanctuary Grant Scheme here.  

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 To discuss your project, email the Refugee Services Team on [email protected].