Sanctuary Council plans to ramp up support for asylum seekers in hotels

EXTRA help and support is planned for the almost 1,000 asylum seekers staying in three hotels in Bristol. This includes more English classes, employment workshops, advice on getting a GP appointment, and giving out sim cards.

- Alex SEABROOK Local democracy reporter

As some councils across the country try to stop the government placing asylum seekers in hotels, Bristol City Council is planning to ramp up its help for the hundreds of people living here fleeing war and persecution. Greens leading the council reaffirmed their support for refugees.

Last weekend protests saw clashes in the city centre between people campaigning against the hotels and anti-racist demonstrators. Now an upcoming new “sanctuary strategy” will explore how the council can help asylum seekers, working alongside other organisations in the city.

Green Councillor Christine Townsend, chair of the children and young people policy committee, said: “From the French Huguenots who came to Bristol in the 17th century fleeing religious persecution, to refugees from Belgium and Poland arriving in our city during the First and Second World Wars, our city has a long history of welcoming communities in their hour of need.