Labour councillors have welcomed a decision that will see Trafford Council become a ‘Local Authority of Sanctuary’ while committing to being a safe and welcoming place for those fleeing persecution.

Becoming a member of ‘City of Sanctuary’ means recognising that those fleeing persecution, human rights violations, wars, the catastrophic effects of climate change are welcomed, and fully integrated into communities while valuing their contribution to society.

Cllr Jill Axford, who represents Lostock and Barton ward, tabled a motion during the meeting of Full Council yesterday (Wednesday) stating current government laws undermine the rights of those facing persecution. And instead have created a hostile environment for refugees which is cruel and divisive, causing harm and distress to the most vulnerable.

“Amidst the darkness and gloom of the hostile environment created by this government towards refugees and asylum seekers, I welcome this motion’s glimmer of hope and positivity,” said Cllr Axford.

“It also means Trafford commits to embed Sanctuary concepts across services and communities and works with other authorities to challenge this government’s inhumane practices.

“Surely people who’ve taken such huge risks, faced such dangers and overcome so many obstacles in making their way to the UK should be welcomed with the respect and compassion they deserve.”

Cllr Emma Hirst, who represents Old Trafford ward, supported the motion because it committed to welcoming refugees and stands up to the government’s ‘hostile environment and persecution of people.’

She added: “When we talk about refugees, its usually in one of two ways – the Government narrative of illegal and criminal men invading our country for their own economic benefit, or the charitable view, of helpless victims, desperate for support.

“My own experience of refugees is neither – the refugees I know, and those I have fostered have been people like you and I, who have been caught in terrible circumstances.

“My foster son Sam, who at 13 years old walked 4000 miles over many months to find his brother, who was here legally, after their father was taken by the Taliban.

“He crossed the channel in a small boat, and nearly died several times on his journey. Sam is a typical teenage boy. He loves cricket, his mobile phone and ice-cream, and dreams of becoming an engineer so he can return home and rebuild his country.

“I’m supporting this motion because it commits to welcoming and supporting refugees who are just the same as us, except they are not safe at home.”

Cllr Bilal Babar, who represents Brooklands ward, also pointed to central government’s various failed asylum policies arguing that those who have fled their country have been ‘demonized’ and portrayed as a threat rather than a victim.

“The government has taken away £288 million from the council finances – leaving residents and businesses to face great difficulties. And yet, ministers agreed to allocate £290 million to spend on the failed Rwanda asylum process,” said Cllr Babar.

As of June 2023, the total ‘work in progress’ asylum caseload consisted of 215,500 cases.

“Trafford has an excellent record of welcoming people from across the world – and I am proud that in recent years, the borough has become home to people from Syria, Afghanistan, and Ukraine as well as a significant number of Hong Kong nationals.

“I believe that by becoming a City of Sanctuary member we can further build on trust between local authorities, residents, and newcomers, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and included.”