Kingston has received national recognition as a welcoming place of safety for people seeking sanctuary. It has been awarded Council of Sanctuary status by City of Sanctuary UK, highlighting its proud history of welcoming people from all over the world.

The achievement is a culmination of the council's work with Kingston's voluntary sector partners, and those with lived experience, to deliver the impactful services for people seeking sanctuary in Kingston.

Partners include Refugee Action Kingston, Migrant Advocacy Service, Kingston University, Learn English At Home, St Mary's Ukrainian School, Connect North Korea, Save the World Club and many others, as well as refugees and asylum seekers themselves.

Councillor Sabah Hamed, Kingston Council's portfolio holder for adult social care, health and equalities said: "We are committed to being a fair and inclusive borough here in Kingston, where people have the opportunities and support they need to thrive.

"I'm delighted that we received the Council of Sanctuary status, highlighting our proud history of being a welcoming borough. This is a place where we proudly celebrate the rich diversity of our communities. 

"We are the 34th most diverse borough in England and there are around 120 languages spoken in schools across the borough. 

"We are proud to champion community-led resettlement and integration, and this award is testament to the strength of our partnerships with the voluntary sector and communities across the borough."

The award is presented to councils that go above and beyond to welcome refugees, asylum seekers and all those seeking sanctuary, and have measures in place to offer support, care and professional advice to these communities.

In December 2022, the council passed the City of Sanctuary motion, setting out its commitment to becoming a Council of Sanctuary. The motion was fully supported by all parties.

​In 2023, it set up the Kingston Resettlement Board to oversee its integration work with partners.

Working with voluntary sector organisations and communities, the council works to ensure a holistic approach to resettlement and integration, and a strong culture of welcome is applied across all services.