Bristol City of Sanctuary

Who we are

Wherever we come from, we all have a right to feel safe. That’s why city by city, community by community, we are building a more welcoming UK for people rebuilding their lives here.

From community groups to schools and universities, local council to libraries and theatres, we work with individuals, groups and organisations in every sector to encourage inclusivity, solidarity and compassion for people from a forced displacement background.

We are a small charity with a huge vision that every person seeking sanctuary feels welcomed, safe and that their contribution to the community is valued.

Our Sanctuary Awards recognise and celebrate the organisations who go above and beyond to welcome people seeking sanctuary.

Our culture and values

Our Vision

For Bristol to stand in solidarity with people seeking sanctuary so that every person feels welcomed and safe.

Our Values

Respect: Treating people with dignity.

Empowerment: Working to create spaces where people seeking sanctuary can voice their experience and achieve their capabilities.

Connection: As the best way of understanding and promoting empathy.

Collaboration: Creating and co-producing partnerships, networks and communities for change.

Equity: Commitment to social and racial justice.

Our Approach

• We mobilise institutions such as schools, colleges, universities, arts organisations, health centres, faith groups and local government to pledge their support and to act on these pledges by embedding practices of welcome and inclusivity which are recognised and celebrated by our Sanctuary Awards.

• We connect with the wider Bristol community, engaging people in our work through volunteering, donating or campaigning.

• We challenge local and national policy and practice, advocating for a compassionate and forward-looking approach which values the contributions people seeking sanctuary make. 

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Bristol City of Sanctuary (BCoS) is unequivocally committed to establishing an anti-racist culture within the organisation. This commitment aligns with our mission to foster a culture of inclusion, safety, and equity for all individuals seeking sanctuary, with a particular focus on supporting vulnerable communities. We ensure that all staff, volunteers, and service users feel respected, heard, and protected, regardless of their racial or ethnic background.