Sanctuary and Racial Justice Programme Canterbury Kent
Sanctuary & Racial Justice ProgrammeWe believe that everyone deserves safety, dignity, and a place to belong. Rooted in Christian faith and committed to racial justice, we believe that courageous encounters deepen our relationship with God.
Our Sanctuary & Racial Justice Programme works alongside churches, communities, and partners across Kent to offer welcome, accompaniment, and practical support to refugees and people seeking asylum.
Our work is grounded in long‑term relationships, community leadership, and a shared commitment to justice, hospitality, and compassion.
How can we help?
Get in touch by sending us an email
My church wants to know more
I need support
(free and confidential)
I am a professional
(refer to us)
Community‑Led Refugee Resettlement
We support churches and community groups to welcome refugee families through community‑led models of resettlement. This includes guidance, training, and ongoing accompaniment to help local communities offer safe, sustainable, relational welcome and to support churches to live out the Gospel.
We are proud to be part of the Afghan Welcome Project, working in partnership with national organisations and the UK Government to support the welcome and resettlement of 125 Afghan households over five years through community‑led welcome.
Welcome Hubs & Community Connection
Our Welcome Hubs create safe, friendly spaces where people can connect, access support, practise English, and build relationships. These hubs are shaped by local communities and respond to the needs, strengths, and hopes of those who attend.
Integration, ESOL & Employment Support
We offer ESOL classes, employability support, and pathways into meaningful integration. Our approach recognises people’s skills, experience, and aspirations, supporting meaningful participation in community life.
Community Cohesion, Arts & Wellbeing
Through creative, cultural, and well-being-focused activities, we facilitate encounters. These initiatives foster connection, confidence, and belonging, strengthening communities for everyone.
Referrals & Support
For Refugees and People Seeking Asylum
If you are living in Kent and would like support, complete our confidential self‑referral form. Support is free.
Please note: we do not provide immigration advice and debt advice. Where appropriate, we signpost to OISC‑regulated services.
For Professionals and Agencies
GPs, local authorities, schools, and other agencies can make referrals using our external referral form.
Training for Churches & Volunteers
We offer free online and in‑person training for churches and volunteers who want to journey alongside refugees and people seeking asylum. Training covers:
- Community sponsorship and community‑led welcome
- Trauma‑informed and culturally responsive practice
- Compulsory Safeguarding Training and boundaries
- Racial justice and faith‑based hospitality
Working with Schools
We run free workshops for schools to promote inclusion, belonging, and understanding of forced displacement.
This includes advice, and opportunities for learning and community connection with our Voices of Welcome Project.
Volunteering With Us
Volunteers are at the heart of our work. Whether you can offer time, skills, friendship, or practical support, there are many ways to get involved:
Our Partners & Funders
We are grateful to our partners and funders who share our commitment to create welcoming, just, and compassionate communities.
Partners
Canterbury Welcome Refugees, Canterbury 4 Ukraine, DWP, Canterbury City Council Resettlement Team
Funders
We are very grateful to Blean Church, Canterbury and St Martin’s & St Paul’s Church, Canterbury, for their Christmas donations.