About Us
Safety, Refuge, Acceptance, Love
Sanctus exists to welcome, support and walk alongside people who are isolated, due to leaving behind the country of their birth to seek sanctuary in the UK. Our name comes from the Latin word which means Holy. We believe that there is no action more holy than welcoming and loving people.
We know that faith is an important aspect of many peoples lives, and is often the reason why they have fled from the country of their birth. And so we aim for our welcome to reflect and acknowledge that, offering support to people of all faiths and none.
Afghanistan and Ukraine Update
The distressing experiences of the people of Afghanistan have prompted a huge outpouring of support and offers to help, from housing, clothing and household items, to financial help and volunteer hours. It is so heartening that we have become so busy answering the queries of people who really want to get involved, and make a practical difference to the lives of the Afghan and Ukranian people that they see suffering the loss of home, family and country. Sanctus is fully committed to supporting all of the families who will be coming to Stoke on Trent and Staffordshire over the coming months, as part of the governments resettlement scheme, in whatever way we can. The families main support will be provided by Refugee Action, who will be coordinating their housing and providing a support worker to help them navigate the day to day tasks and challenges they will face settling into a new community in a new country.
However, there are already many people from other equally distressing situations from around the world, who we continue to support every week. We really appreciate any help that you can give to us in supporting them.
Check out our ‘Get Involved’ page to see how you may be able to help us to help them!
Drop In for Asylum Seekers and Refugees
Refugees and asylum seekers in Stoke-on-Trent are invited to DROP-IN on a Thursday morning, for a listening ear, help with bureaucracy, a informal English lessons, support with accommodation and assistance with food, baby equipment, family support and assistance with accessing a legal representative.
The drop-in sessions are supported by a team of committed volunteers, Sexual Health Services, Refugee and asylum nursing team (including mental health), The Department for Work and Pensions, Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce and other organisations.
"For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me"
Matthew 25:35