Council's place of sanctuary status approved
BBCA council's bid to become a place of sanctuary has been approved despite opposition.
Cumberland Council's application to become a council of sanctuary has been accepted, which the authority said recognised it as providing "a safe and welcoming place for everyone".
The Labour-led council's bid was met with opposition from some residents who protested against it at council meetings in recent months.
Opponents said they feared the status would lead to a rise in immigration and greater costs for council tax payers, though the council denied that would happen.
The council's deputy leader Lisa Hinton said she wanted everyone in the area to feel "safe, supported, and part of a caring community".
"Becoming a council of sanctuary is a very proud moment for us, and it speaks volumes about the strength, generosity, and resilience of our people," she said.
'Inclusive services'
A Conservative motion to block the bid was voted down earlier this year.
The motion, put forward by Conservative councillor Gareth Ellis, raised concerns the model was "not a neutral badge".
Cumberland Council said the recognition meant the council was committed to providing inclusive services, including offering language support and working with partners to offer safe housing.
City of Sanctuary programme manager for local government Maggie Filipova-Rivers said the process had involved reviewing council policies and practices.
She said: "This work is ultimately about ensuring all residents feel included, supported and able to thrive, while recognising the particular importance of working alongside people who have fled war and persecution."
