Surrey-Wide Immigration Strategy

Overview

The Community Vision for Surrey in 2030 sets out a system-wide view on the ambitions we all share for the county. Partners and residents agreed that we want Surrey to be a uniquely special place where everyone has a great start to life, people live healthy and fulfilling lives, are enabled to achieve their full potential and contribute to their community. As partners, we agree that Surrey is a welcoming and inclusive county with a fundamental goal to support communities in accessing opportunities and tackling inequalities wherever and for whomever they exist in our county. We envision Surrey to be a place where no one is left behind.

Global migration is complex and multifaceted, but it is a phenomenon that has been present throughout human history. Although migration can bring with it some challenges, countries, organisations and communities also recognise the significant economic, social and cultural value that migration offers.

Surrey has a long and proud history of providing sanctuary for people fleeing crises: from Huguenots escaping persecution in the 16th century to displaced people from both World War 1 and 2 (Refugees (Exploring Surrey's Past)) . Over the last few years, Surrey has continued to welcome migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees into the county as migration patterns have shifted in response to changing global pressures such as war and instability. The essence of 'no one left behind' has been exemplified time and time again by Surrey residents, who have opened their homes and hearts to welcome new arrivals into their communities. It is likely that further global instability and the growing effects of climate change will continue to impact the number of people seeking sanctuary in our county, and Surrey has a strong foundation from which to grow its support for those finding safety here.

This strategy sets out our intent and role as a 'system of partners' for how we will continue to work to ensure all people are welcomed, feel safe and are supported to achieve the best outcomes, regardless of where and what situation they come from. Supporting our communities and our residents through this process requires a partnership approach on every level and in every part of our county. This strategy brings together the various strands of extensive work partners are already delivering and sets out our objectives as a system.

Summary for translations

In Surrey, we are proud of our history as a place of welcome and refuge, and we remain committed to upholding this legacy as the global landscape continues to shift.

This strategy represents a united response from partners across our county, including local authorities, health services, education providers, voluntary and community organisations, and most importantly, sanctuary seekers themselves. Their voices have grounded our work in reality and helped us design an approach that is not only compassionate, but practical and deliverable. Together we are shaping a Surrey where everyone feels safe, valued and supported, enabling them to thrive.

The community that I’m living in is fantastic and a lot of good people, good families around, so if we want to see anyone, a neighbour, mostly we see them in the park or the community centre.

A Sanctuary Seeker

Our principles for action

The strategy is guided by several key principles:

• Be inclusive: Ensuring all individuals feel welcomed and supported.
• Be clear: being clear about the services available, policies on housing eligibility, on how to access services, and the time it may take.
• Be collaborative: Work together across various sectors and communities.
• Improve access: enabling access to the right service in the right place at the right time.
• Always use our integrity: expect high standards of honesty, behaviour, and always act in the interests of people seeking sanctuary, service providers and our wider communities.
• Be sustainable: Creating long-term solutions that benefit both migrants and the local community.

Our full list of principles can be found in the index on the left.

Our objectives

The main objectives of the strategy are:

• Meeting the basic needs of Sanctuary Seekers: Ensuring migrants can access essential services like healthcare, welfare, and housing.
• Economic inclusion: Providing Sanctuary Seekers with access to education, training, work experience and volunteering to help meet their aspirations and increase their employability.
• Community and belonging: Working with residents and community groups to enhance the support network for migrants and create a sense of belonging and integration within local communities.
• Working together: Sharing data and information about services and opportunities with partners to ensure the relevant support is offered to Sanctuary Seekers. Ensuring frontline staff are trained to provide sensitive and caring support to those they help. Provide partner organisations with training on anti-modern slavery to ensure exploitation is detected and stopped, and the victims of modern slavery are given all the support they need. Involving Sanctuary Seekers in reviewing the services and support we provide, to gain their feedback to continually improve how we and our partners work with them.

Our full list of objectives can be found in the index on the left.

Our promise

We recognise the strengths Sanctuary Seekers bring to Surrey and the challenges they face. Whether arriving through government resettlement schemes, asylum processes, or due to conflict and instability, each person seeking sanctuary in Surrey should find a community ready to welcome them with dignity and care.

This strategy is our promise: to act with integrity, to listen, and to ensure that no one is left behind.

Immigration in Surrey

Immigration within Surrey remains a dynamic situation with a regular flow of people in and out of the county.

Since the notable increase in immigration after welcoming Syrian refugees in 2016, our system-wide effort has expanded in recent years with the evacuation of initially military personnel and those supporting them from Kabul, Afghanistan and then Afghan civilians and more recently, those arriving in the UK from the Ukraine. British Nationals from Hong Kong have also been welcomed into Surrey, under their national re-settlement scheme. In addition, Surrey is providing accommodation for asylum seekers, most notably those that arrive in small boats having crossed the channel. A number of these are Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children (UASC), who warrant the utmost sensitivity in their treatment.

In recent years, the system has developed a substantial amount of data and insights on the experiences of migrants, communities and service providers in Surrey.

• The Migrant Health Rapid Needs Assessment (Surrey-i), published in 2023, highlighted the challenges experienced by vulnerable cohorts of migrants. It identified issues such as difficulty accessing services, difference in presentation and awareness of mental health conditions, the impact of cultural differences and the complex nature of pre-migratory experiences and how these can all significantly impact the health and wellbeing of migrants.
• Similarly, the Health needs of vulnerable migrants in Surrey, Annual Public Health Report 2024 looked at the health needs of vulnerable migrants in Surrey. The report focused on five key areas of need, primary care, mental health, women and children’s health, education and housing.
• Homes For Ukraine: Needs Assessment 2024 looked into the experiences of guests and hosts that were part of the Homes4Ukraine scheme. The assessment presented findings on guest and host relations, guest access to jobs and skills, guest access to support for mental health and wellbeing, and children’s experiences of settling into school in the UK.
• Sanctuary Seeker focus groups were brought together to discuss the contents of this strategy to help inform and set the strategic direction and priorities for the system. The full report can be found in Appendix 2 (see left-hand index).

These insights paint a clear picture of the challenges and barriers facing both sanctuary seeking residents and service providers within Surrey. They have therefore shaped the contents and direction of this Surrey-wide strategy.

Definition and scope

• Definition of immigration
• Definition of Sanctuary Seeker
• Scope

Definition of immigration

Immigration is a broad term referring to all forms of voluntary and forced migration into a place, however this strategy will focus on a group we are labelling as ‘Sanctuary Seekers’ due to their migration status and heightened vulnerability which often result in greater need for the services and support of the wider system in Surrey. So, whilst it is titled as an immigration strategy, this document specifically focuses on those seeking sanctuary in Surrey and not on general immigration or economic migration.

Definition of Sanctuary Seeker

The term Sanctuary Seeker broadly includes individuals who have fled their home either due to violence or persecution, or continued insecure status at home, and are therefore seeking sanctuary in Surrey. Sanctuary Seeker may include, but is not limited to:

• Someone seeking asylum.
• Someone with refugee status.
• Someone who has arrived as part of a resettlement scheme.
• Someone who has arrived as part of the Afghan Resettlement Programme (ARP), which consolidates previous schemes such as ARAP and ACRS.
• Someone who has been sponsored (such as under the Ukrainian Visa Schemes)
• Someone who has lived, worked, or contributed for years but experiences insecurity, discrimination, and hardship because of insecure or irregular immigration status.
• Someone who has relocated due to significant changes in political or legal conditions in their place of origin, impacting their freedoms and rights.

This definition also includes unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC), defined by the UK Home Office as individuals under the age of 18 - or those appearing to be under 18 without reliable documentation - who are applying for asylum in the UK without the care of a parent or legal guardian. These young people often face unique vulnerabilities and require tailored safeguarding, accommodation, and transition planning as they move toward adulthood.

The use of the term Sanctuary Seeker was widely endorsed by focus group participants, with the clear request that its meaning be transparent and accompanied by definition. It is used here not as a legal classification but as an overarching, inclusive, and humanising term - intended to describe people navigating immigration processes with dignity and respect, regardless of legal status.

Scope

Challenges that Sanctuary Seekers face

While all Sanctuary Seekers face challenges, specific cohorts, such as asylum seekers, may encounter additional barriers, including restrictions on work and access to public funds, which amplify their vulnerability. Certain cohorts, such as asylum seekers or age-disputed young adults, may face compounded vulnerabilities. These include legal and social barriers, such as restrictions on employment or access to public funds, limited access to housing, and delays or complexities in age assessments. The system will uphold a trauma-informed and rights-based approach in supporting young people whose age is disputed, ensuring appropriate advocacy and safeguarding throughout assessment processes. More detailed definitions of the cohorts included within the Sanctuary Seekers term can be found in Appendix 1 of this report (see left-hand index).

Our guiding mission for Surrey is that no one is left behind, and in line with this one of our core values for immigration work in Surrey is universal and inclusive services and support. However, it is important to note that the individuals who fall under the term Sanctuary Seeker will have arrived in Surrey under different national schemes and pathways which result in differing levels of funding and service provision being made available to them. As such, partners in the Surrey system are not always able to overcome or mitigate the inequity that is built into the current system, such as the restrictions and limitations experienced by individuals seeking asylum.

No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF)

Furthermore, some cohorts within the term Sanctuary Seekers may be ‘subject to immigration control’, resulting in them having No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF). In this context, public funds include certain benefits, housing assistance, and social housing. This includes individuals on Hong Kong British National (Overseas) (BN(O)) visas, who typically arrive with NRPF conditions. While public funds may be restricted, they remain eligible to work and study in the UK.

Where individuals or families are at risk of destitution, or have significant care or health needs, local authorities may still have a duty to provide accommodation and subsistence through Children’s Services or Adult Social Care, depending on the case. This includes circumstances where BN(O) visa holders or others with NRPF may be eligible for a ‘change of conditions’ application to the Home Office to lift their NRPF restriction. Surrey County Council (SCC) may be required to provide evidence of support to enable this.

Additionally, the financial burden on those with NRPF can be considerable. Individuals and families are often required to pay substantial visa renewal fees (Home Office Immigration and Nationality Fees (GOV.UK) – Family Route) and associated charges, such as the Immigration Health Surcharge (GOV.UK), which can create significant financial strain - particularly for those already receiving limited or no income. While fee waivers may be available in some circumstances (Permitting access to public funds - British Nationals (Overseas) Route (GOV.UK)), such as when statutory support is already being provided, navigating this process can be complex. Partners should be aware of these pressures and remain prepared to provide guidance and support in line with legal frameworks and best practice. Relevant guidance and resources are available through official channels and should be referred to for the most up-to-date information.

As such, when delivering against the joint strategic objectives of this strategy, partners will need to understand and act within the legal bounds of NRPF, ensuring that appropriate support is provided to individuals - including, for example, understanding when a Human Rights Assessment is appropriate and how to conduct it, or knowing where a fee waiver may apply on the basis of established eligibility for relevant local authority support.

Partners will also continue to monitor evolving Home Office guidance on NRPF, advocating for equitable support routes and ensuring staff are equipped with tools and training to navigate complex cases. Where practical, links with VCSE partners will help extend informal safety nets to mitigate the effects of support gaps due to NRPF status.

Our ambition

Within this context, this strategy sets out our ambition to, where possible, welcome every Sanctuary Seeker in Surrey with the same care, support, and dignity, while recognising the systemic challenges and inequities inherent in national policy frameworks.

Our principles for action

Values

• Welcoming - The primary guiding principle for our response to Sanctuary Seekers will make clear that they are welcomed and valued in the county. We treat them with respect and dignity, recognising them as valued members of our communities, and strive to ensure they feel included and supported throughout their time in Surrey.
• Inclusive - We welcome and respect people from all backgrounds, place the highest value on diversity and are committed to equality.
• Universal - Sanctuary Seeker groups were clear that "what is good for one marginalised group is good for all". The county will work to make sure that, wherever possible, the services it offers are open to all on a consistent basis.
• Clear - Organisations working with Sanctuary Seekers emphasise the importance of clarity - around services available, around policies on housing eligibility, on how to access services, and the time it may take. The system of partners will ensure that they are clear in their communication and interactions with sanctuary seekers about what they can expect and when.
• Collaborative - Each partner recognises that it is just one part of a network of organisations and groups which support sanctuary seekers. It will endeavour to deliver joined-up services, to signpost to other services and providers when needed, and to work in partnership with community groups.
• Accessible - Sanctuary Seekers should be able to access the right service in the right place at the right time. Partners will make sure that services are accessible to sanctuary seekers, including access to translated documents and interpreters when needed.
• Participative - We value and recognise the contribution of all involved in making Surrey a place of sanctuary. We aspire to ensure people seeking sanctuary are fully involved in decision making processes.
• Inspiring - We work with enthusiasm and positivity and are determined to surpass what has already been achieved to welcome people seeking sanctuary. We act as a catalyst for change by being open to new and innovative ideas and through sharing knowledge gained with others and working in partnership.
• Integrity - We aspire to high standards of honesty and behaviour, and act in the interests of people seeking sanctuary, service providers and our wider communities.
• Outcomes - driven and effectiveness – We focus on delivery, and maximising our collective action to make best use of resources
• Evidence-led - We act based on the facts and adapt our approach as the facts change the nature of our delivery landscape

Our Role as a 'system'

"Working as a system" means coordinated action by all relevant partners, such as local government, health, education, voluntary and community groups, who collectively plan, deliver, and evaluate services. It emphasises shared responsibility, efficient resource use, clear communication, and integrated support to achieve common goals across sectors.

As a system we will:

1. Offer a positive vision of a culture of welcome and hospitality to all.
   We will promote in our county an unwavering commitment to equality, protecting and promoting the rights and welfare of all our residents.
2. Be accountable for strategic delivery of support systems and services across the county which help existing residents, new residents, groupings, and communities to make the most of the potential within population change.
3. Promote relationships of friendship and community between local people and those seeking sanctuary. We will support community development and foster good community relations, while rejecting all forms of discrimination.
4. Recognise and encourage collaboration to achieve our collective aims. We will work as partners and communities to improve the county for everyone who lives and works here, using our influence to create positive changes.
5. Identify opportunities for practical action and work on common cause issues to effect change within and across communities.

Our objectives

As a system, we will seek to deliver against the following objectives:

1. Meeting the basic needs of Sanctuary Seekers
2. Economic inclusion
3. Community and belonging
4. Working together as a 'system'

1. Meeting the basic needs of Sanctuary Seekers

Definition: Ensuring all Sanctuary Seekers in Surrey have timely access to life’s essentials, such as safe housing, healthcare, legal support, and protection from harm. It requires the system to understand and respond to their vulnerabilities, reduce risk of crisis or homelessness, and promote dignity from the point of arrival.

We prioritise: Secure and stable housing

Our objectives:

• Sanctuary Seekers will be supported with access to information on housing options, rights and responsibilities.
• Surrey partners will work alongside housing providers to ensure that, where possible, Sanctuary Seekers have access to timely and good quality housing support.
• When accommodation is provided, it will meet local authority housing standards.

We prioritise: Health and wellbeing

Our objectives:

• Sanctuary Seekers will be supported to access appropriate medical support upon arrival in Surrey. This may include emergency treatment, immunisations, and infectious disease screening.
• Sanctuary Seekers will be assisted in registering with local GPs and dentists.
• Sanctuary Seekers will be assisted in accessing appropriate adult and children’s social care services.
• Where available, mental health and well-being services will be accessible and tailored to meet the specific needs of Sanctuary Seekers.
• All health services will provide professional interpreting and translation services in line with NHS guidance.
• Health promotion and awareness services will be available to reduce health inequalities.

We prioritise: Preventing crisis, destitution or homelessness

Preventing Crisis, Destitution or Homelessness refers to efforts aimed at providing timely and appropriate welfare support to sanctuary seekers. The goal is to prevent situations of severe difficulty (crisis), extreme poverty (destitution), and lack of shelter (homelessness).

Our objectives:

• In this context, crisis and destitution refers to when individuals or families are unable to meet their most basic needs -such as food, shelter, and essential care - resulting in significant risk to health, safety, or wellbeing.
• Where necessary, Sanctuary Seekers will be supported with timely access to appropriate welfare support to prevent crises and acute poverty, thereby reducing future demand on social care and health care services.

We prioritise: Safety, safeguarding and trust

• All partners play an active role in fostering a welcoming and safe environment for Sanctuary Seekers in Surrey, helping communities recognise their value and contribution.
• Sanctuary Seekers are made aware of their rights and responsibilities in the UK and supported in accessing legal advice and representation when needed.
• Services will provide culturally sensitive information and support on safeguarding topics such as domestic abuse, exploitation, and family dynamics, tailored to the lived experiences of different sanctuary-seeking communities.
• Sanctuary Seekers are supported to feel safe, trust local services, and feel confident in reporting crime - including hate crime - without fear of discrimination or reprisal.
• Young Sanctuary Seekers, including unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC) and care leavers, are supported to feel secure, respected, and able to thrive through consistent, trauma-informed care.
• This strategy aligns with Surrey’s Corporate Parenting Strategy 2023 to 2025, which outlines specific responsibilities for UASC and provides structured support as they transition into adulthood.
• Where a young person’s age is in doubt, Surrey partners follow statutory guidance and best practice to ensure age assessments are carried out fairly and sensitively. These are conducted by two trained social workers, with access to interpreters and appropriate adults, and always in a trauma-informed, rights-respecting way.
• Surrey Fire and Rescue Service will work with partners to create a referral pathway for Safe and Well Visits - offering household safety checks and tailored advice to Sanctuary Seekers to reduce risks and promote wellbeing.

2. Economic inclusion

Definition: Creating real and equitable opportunities for sanctuary seekers to learn, work, and contribute. It includes recognising overseas qualifications, providing access to skills training, English language learning, and digital tools, so that Sanctuary Seekers can thrive economically and integrate meaningfully into local communities.

We prioritise: Access to skills and education

Our objectives:

• Sanctuary Seekers skills, qualifications and work experience are assessed and recognised by relevant agencies.
• Sanctuary Seekers are supported with access to education, training, volunteering, and work experience opportunities that meet their aspirations and increase employability.
• Schools, colleges, and other educational providers support Sanctuary Seekers and ensure they feel welcomed.
• Sanctuary-seeking children have timely access to education in early year settings, schools and colleges that are safe and welcoming, with additional support to ensure academic attainment and social integration.

We prioritise: Participation in the economy

Our objective:

Where permitted by immigration status, Sanctuary Seekers will be supported to access employment and business development support aligned with their needs and aspirations, as part of the local employment support offer.

We prioritise: Advocacy and awareness building

Our objective:

Employers, businesses and education providers are educated on Sanctuary Seekers' rights and needs, promoting employment opportunities.

We prioritise: Addressing barriers to economic inclusion

Our objectives:

• The English language needs of Sanctuary Seekers will be assessed as soon as possible after arrival using consistent and comprehensive tools, such as the British Council self-assessor.
• Sanctuary Seekers will have access to ESOL provision that is suitable to their individual needs and aspirations, including informal learning opportunities.
• Sanctuary Seekers will be supported with digital access and are helped to gain the necessary skills, equipment, and connectivity to use online services.
• Sanctuary seekers are supported with information and guidance on how to access local transport provision.

3. Community and belonging

Definition: Helping Sanctuary Seekers feel they are part of the wider Surrey community, not just as residents, but as neighbours, contributors, and friends. It involves removing social and cultural barriers, promoting interaction, and supporting local communities to embrace diversity and foster inclusion.

We prioritise: Community integration

Our objectives:

• Cultural, leisure, sports and wider voluntary, community and faith sectors will engage in the integration of Sanctuary Seekers through safe, accessible, and welcoming activities.
• Recognising the importance of social connection for mental health and wellbeing, Sanctuary Seekers will be supported to make sustainable connections with people from all backgrounds and have access to meaningful opportunities to interact with others.

We prioritise: Bringing communities along

Our objectives:

• Residents and community groups will be informed and supported with welcoming sanctuary seekers into their communities, helping to educate, upskill and raise awareness of the value sanctuary seekers bring to their host communities.
• Take a partnership approach to promoting community cohesion and tackling hate crime.

4. Working together as a 'system'

Definition: Working together as a 'system' means that no single organisation works in isolation. All partners across sectors coordinate their efforts, share data, and align strategies to provide Sanctuary Seekers with seamless, effective, and person-centred support. It’s about joint accountability, consistent communication, and collective problem-solving.

We prioritise: Information and data sharing

Our objectives:

• Services and organisations in Surrey have access to, and use of, information and data sources about Sanctuary Seekers in the county.
• Through the governance structure, partners share relevant data and insights in an effective and timely manner, to inform decision making.
• Existing services are mapped and their information is easily accessible so partners are able to signpost sanctuary seekers to available support.

We prioritise: Participative approach

Our objectives:

• Sanctuary Seeker communities will be involved in data production, research, and evaluating service impacts where possible.
• Feedback from Sanctuary Seekers will be sought to mitigate any negative service impacts.
• Ensure sanctuary seekers have adequate means of understanding and communicating with the system and their community, through ESOL provision and translation services.

We prioritise: Partnership working

Our objectives:

• Providers in Surrey collaborate effectively with each other through strong partnerships, robust referral mechanisms and joint commissioning.
• Robust and appropriate governance is developed to oversee system-wide activity, and this governance is reviewed on an annual basis to ensure it remains fit-for-purpose.

We prioritise: Service and provision planning and management

Our objectives:

• Leadership within services will be committed to sanctuary seeker integration and the development of welcoming and inclusive services.
• Positive action for Sanctuary Seekers will be promoted, and where possible resources allocated to eliminate access disadvantages.

We prioritise: Training and support for staff

Our objectives:

• Raise awareness and understanding of cultural differences between service users, providers, commissioners, and communities.
• Raise awareness of the impact of trauma on Sanctuary Seekers and the need for services to be trauma informed.
• Ensure frontline staff working with sanctuary seekers have access to occupational mental health and wellbeing support and training.

We prioritise: Responsibilities as employers and commissioners

Our objectives:

• Partner organisations to take responsibility both as employers and, where relevant, commissioners to understand, mitigate and address modern slavery through appropriate policies and activities.
• Provide staff and commissioners with anti-slavery training to ensure organisations are equipped to recognise and address exploitation where present.
• Take a partnership approach to providing comprehensive support for victims of modern slavery.

We prioritise: Sustainable funding

Our objectives:

• The system works together to identify and map the funding available to support sanctuary seekers, making any necessary changes to the funding allocation process in order to maximise and ensure best use of limited resources.
• Explore alternative funding provision such as through philanthropic sources.

We prioritise: Advocacy and lobbying

Our objective:

Raise awareness of the experiences and needs of sanctuary seekers with national stakeholders, ensuring national leadership is equipped with the information to make systematic changes.

Governance

Partners across Surrey

There is an extensive amount of partnership work already taking place across the county between health services, education providers, voluntary, community and faith groups, local government, local businesses, central government departments and residents themselves. These partners, forming the wider system, have collectively worked to accommodate, care for, and settle sanctuary seekers in Surrey, both on a temporary and permanent basis. Each of these partners has an important and integral role to play in responding and supporting sanctuary seeker communities in the most effective way.

In order to deliver the objectives within this strategy, we must make the best use of our collective resources, work in an effective way as possible, not duplicate effort, celebrate successes together, remain flexible to the changing context and find solutions to issues as a collective.

System governance structure

This strategy sets out the system's commitment to developing a robust and appropriate governance structure in order to oversee system-wide activity. The system is committed to reviewing this governance on an annual basis to ensure it remains fit-for-purpose to deliver against the strategic objectives in an ever-changing national and local context.

Surrey-Wide Immigration Group (SWIG)

SWIG is responsible for coordinating activities and resources across Surrey, addressing immigration challenges, ensuring efficient integration of new residents, capturing the benefits of immigration, and managing pressures on partner services. The group is comprised of local, regional and national partners from across health, education, VCSE (voluntary, community and social enterprise), and local government.

SWIG holds primary responsibility for steering and reporting on the progress of the Surrey Wide Immigration Strategy and its Action Plan.

SWIG will report into the Health and Wellbeing Board and Integrated Care Partnership, as well as the Surrey Chief Executives group through regular reports on the delivery against the action plan.

In recognition of the evolving governance landscape across Surrey, including the potential establishment of a new Community Safety Board, the system will remain responsive and aligned. Should such structures be formalised, the SWIG governance model will be reviewed to ensure appropriate alignment, escalation pathways, and integration of public safety and community safeguarding priorities.

Thematic, task and response sub-groups

A number of thematic, task and response groups exist to bring together partners around specific programmes of work related to sanctuary seeker support. By nature, these groups stand up when targeted partnership activity is necessary, based on the current immigration context. They operate in line with their own agreed Terms of References and decision-making structure. However, when a system-wide decision or discussion is needed this will be escalated to SWIG for consideration. Each group is linked into SWIG through board representation.

Regional and national immigration groups

There are a number of groups that have been set up at a regional level or that bring together regional and national partners to discuss immigration activity. Relevant partners in Surrey have representation on these groups and feed information into the wider system through the local governance.

To raise awareness of the experiences and needs of sanctuary seekers in Surrey with national stakeholders, SWIG will feed into national and regional immigration groups where necessary, whilst transferring important information from these groups into SWIG to ensure local conversations are in line with the regional and national context.

Wider alignment

Individual partners in SWIG and the sub-groups will remain aligned with other relevant partnership groups or internal organisational groups, feeding in updates or specific discussion items when relevant and ensuring duplication is avoided. In collaboration with Surrey Chief Executives, the system will explore cross-boundary protocols to reduce the risk of individuals falling through gaps between local authority areas and ensure continuity of care and support.

Accountability and delivery

The primary delivery mechanism for this strategy is through an action plan that sets out activity against each of the agreed upon objectives within the strategy. The action plan is an iterative document and is able to flex in line with the changing context and realistic delivery timescales.

Accountability for the action plan sits with SWIG. SWIG will have a standing item on the delivery against this action plan and the group will produce regular progress reports to share with the wider governance and senior stakeholders. Ownership of individual objectives sit with the appropriate sub-group or, in some cases, with individual partners to lead.

Importantly, and in-line with the strategic objective to take a participative approach, Sanctuary Seekers will be engaged on the delivery against objectives where appropriate, ensuring that their lived experience is factored into decision making and prioritisation.

SWIG will also explore structured mechanisms for ongoing involvement of Sanctuary Seekers in shaping action plans, contributing feedback, and co-producing elements of delivery where appropriate.

Appendix 1: Definitions

(Please note, this section is based on information available in March 2025 and may be out of date at your time of reading)

• Migrant: Anyone who moves away from their country of birth to live in the UK. There are many reasons why a person may move away from their country of birth, and not always by choice. Possible reasons may include:
  • to work
  • to study
  • to join family
  • to seek asylum (often to flee armed conflicts, human rights violations, persecution or others forms of crisis)
  • victim of human trafficking
• Asylum Seeker: A person who has fled their country to seek protection (from armed conflicts, persecution and serious human rights violations) and has submitted an asylum claim to the Home Office so that they can receive refugee status. Seeking asylum is a human right.
• Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children (UASC): A child under the age of 18 who has fled their home country without a parent or guardian and is seeking asylum in another country, meaning they are applying for protection from persecution or violence on their own, without the care of a responsible adult
• Refugee: A person who has left their country to seek protection (from armed conflicts, persecution and serious human rights violations). They were once an asylum seeker and were granted their claim, entitling them to international protection. They have the right to live, work and study in the UK.
• Refugee and Sanctuary Seeking schemes:
  There are two main routes to refugee status in the UK:
  • Independent arrival into the UK and applying for refugee status. During this time an individual is classified as an asylum-seeker
  • As part of a government resettlement programme, whereby an individual is granted refugee status outside the UK and is voluntarily relocated to the UK.

Pathways

• The Homes for Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme - Enables those with an approved sponsor to apply to come to the UK for up to 18 months (the length of this visa was reduced from up to 3 years in February 2024). Two additional schemes which were available to Ukrainian nationals, the Ukraine Family Scheme and the Ukraine Extension Scheme both offering visas for up to three years have now closed to applications. Those who have been given permission to be in the UK under one of these three Ukraine schemes are able to apply for a further 18 months permission to stay in the UK under the Ukraine Permission Extension Scheme, ensuring continuous support and access to work, healthcare, and education.
  Length of status: 18 Months
• Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) - Launched on 1 April 2021 for Afghan citizens who worked for or with the UK Government in Afghanistan.
  Length of status: Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK (not refugee)
• Afghan citizens' resettlement scheme (ACRS) - Launched 6 January 2022 and offers support and accommodation to current and former Locally Employed Staff and their families.
  Length of status: Indefinite leave to remain (ILR in the UK
• Afghan Resettlement Programme (ARP) - As of December 2024 The ARP is the UK Government’s consolidated scheme combining the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) and the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS). It supports eligible Afghan nationals who worked with or for the UK Government and other vulnerable groups, including women, children, and minorities at risk. The programme facilitates safe passage to the UK, with arrivals supported through transitional and settled accommodation and a simplified funding model for local authorities.
  Length of status: Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK
• Asylum seekers - Section 95 of the 1999 Act enables the provision of support to asylum-seekers or dependants of asylum-seekers who appear to the Secretary of State to be destitute or are likely to become destitute within 14 days. An asylum seeker is defined as a person who has made a claim for asylum which has been recorded by the Secretary of State, but which has not yet been determined.
  Length of status: Dependent on the time it takes to assess the asylum application.

Appendix 2: Sanctuary Seeker focus groups report

Participation Phase 3: Sanctuary Seekers lived experience engagement

Facilitated by Jenny Cave-Jones (Research Officer) and Bashir Fatehi (Surrey County Council Immigration Manager)

Full report by Jenny Cave-Jones, 28 November 2024.

Introduction

This research took place as part of the wider system and public participation process in designing the Surrey Wide Immigration Strategy. The engagement process took the following phases:

1. Internal SCC engagement phase
2. External partner engagement phase
3. Sanctuary Seeker Lived Experience Participation
4. Resident Research through Customer Panel Survey
5. This report sets out the approach and findings of Phase 3: Sanctuary Seeker Lived Experience Participation. It is structured with the following sections: aims, sample, data collection, data analysis, findings, discussion, conclusion and key recommendations. The ‘findings’ section contains many of the human experiences shared against the objectives, whilst the ‘discussion’ and ‘key recommendations’ sections both contain information about the feedback on delivery. Whilst this sits technically outside the scope of the strategic objectives review, there were rich discussion, views and ideas which are outlined to support the ultimate endeavour of meaningful implementation.

Aims

To find out:

• whether participants identified and agreed with use of the term ‘Sanctuary Seekers’
• whether participants agreed with the draft strategic objectives included in the Surrey Wide Immigration Strategy
• about experiences participants have had seeking sanctuary in Surrey, in relation to the strategic objectives
• about insights participants have that may further inform the final shaping of the strategy’s values and objectives.

Sample

Ten adults participated in total, with two groups of five each attending three sessions, in addition to four one to one catch up sessions due to participant non-attendance at one or more of the three planned meeting slots. Male and female participants attended, with countries of origin being Hong Kong, Ukraine, Syria and Afghanistan. Immigration status was variously identified as settled, asylum seeker or refugee and immigration visa programmes such as HK BNO and Homes for Ukraine.

• Interpreters required for adult groups: Arabic, Ukrainian, Dari
• Translation modes: Microsoft Teams basic transcript translation.
• Written documents of session summaries and pre-session reading shared with participants in English and language of origin as required.

The Young People Focus Group consisted of three male participants aged between eighteen and twenty-seven years; countries of origin being Iran, Nicaragua and Sudan, with either settled or refugee status.

Data collection methods

• Quantitative - A Surrey Says Survey (online) was distributed via organisational contacts, and demographic information and availability of people interested in participating was collected.
  
  Invites were then sent to participants who met the identified priorities in order to ensure that, where possible, there was representation across county-of-origin, gender, immigration status and age.

• Qualitative - This section includes ethical considerations around how this data was collected.
  Focus Groups (online):
  
  In order to accommodate the participants availability, the group of adults was split into two subgroups, one meeting in the morning and the other in the evening. Each subgroup took part in three session over the 17th, 24th of October and 7th November. Although the sessions were scheduled for hour, most lasted one and a half hours and it became apparent this was the minimum time allocation needed given the nature of the content and richness of experience sharing. Several one-to-one sessions were also facilitated with participants who were unable to attend one of the group sessions for various reasons, in order to ensure thorough capture from all participants. These lasted up to one hour. Each participant was gifted a £25 voucher per session, up to a total of £75 for all three sessions.
  
  A decision was taken to interview the participant who is an SCC employee separately to avoid other participants potentially being less open if the group space contains SCC employees in addition to core facilitators.
  
  One participant disclosed their current status as a borough councillor in Surrey at the end of the first session. Given the group had positively bonded at that point, the decision was made to retain the group as it was, in the best interests of the participants.
  
  Before each meeting, an agenda and pre-reading was sent to participants, and after each meeting a summary of discussion for any comments and amendments. Versions were sent in English, Dari, Arabic and Ukrainian. Participants were informed they will receive a summary report at the end of the sessions once collated.
  The young person focus group took place as one, two-hour session with three young people aged between eighteen and twenty-seven years old.
  
  In all groups, a trauma-informed approach was taken, and the key principles of safety, trust, choice, collaboration, empowerment and cultural consideration and intersectionality were named to the groups as the relational framework, alongside agreement around the key aspects of confidentiality and consent. Contextual aspects, such as any sharing not negatively affecting their status or situation, were clearly named. It was explained that the facilitation would be led by the Research Officer with support from the Immigration Manager and any session translators, and that for any issues requiring specialist advice, the Immigration Manager would be available for a one-to-one support session at a later point for participants seeking help with personal circumstances.
  
  For the young person group, the facilitation differed to include a representative from Big Leaf who was familiar to the young people, alongside the Surrey County Council Research Officer. The young people involved have direct support in place from Big Leaf but were also offered the opportunity to contact the County Council’s Immigration Manager at any future point for advice or assistance.

Data analysis methods

A Thematic Analysis (light touch) was conducted to include main themes, insights, experiences and ideas put forward.

Findings

The term ‘Sanctuary Seeker’ was unanimously welcomed by all participants, though with the clear caveat that a definition should accompany any usage of it. The purpose of this is to:

• Define what ‘sanctuary’ means in this context – different cultures ascribe various meanings to the word
• Clarify that it is being used as an overarching term to describe anyone who might be going through the legal processes related to immigration and is an intended term of humanity rather than a legal definition or separate category.

Participants were in unanimous agreement with all objectives of the draft strategy, whilst sharing their own experiences around each one, and consistently referring to the underpinning delivery mechanisms that will need to be in place, with key themes being: action, accountability, and outcome measures.

There follows a summary under each objective heading of the insights provided by the participants in these groups. There were varied experiences, some being culture specific, whilst several themes were recurrent regardless of country of origin, immigration status, or resettlement route. It became quickly apparent during the session discussions that many experiences, both positive and negative, sit across more than one objective, each impacting the effectiveness of the other.

Secure and stable housing

Experiences varied from receiving the right information and timely support with suitable housing provided, to not having the correct or complete information around rights and processes, unsuitable accommodation (hotel, temporary etc), borrowing money to self-fund private renting and associated stresses.

Private landlords charging one year rent in advance (circa 20K), an experience shared by Ukrainian and Hong Kong participants, can significantly add to stress and limit options whilst creating more debt. This arrangement was described as being proposed by landlords in lieu of references they deem acceptable. Participants from Hong Kong also shared experiences of estate management companies increasing fees and explaining that this was due to the increased security cost incurred to protect migrant tenants.

One participant described how they worked two jobs, 72 hours a week in order to get references to rent somewhere, because their family had not received the correct information about housing options. The participant described it as being like ‘stuck in a circle’ and landlords would still not accept references which resulted in borrowing money for one year upfront, in addition to exhaustion from parenting three children at the same time.

Another participant became upset when sharing their experience of where they and their family are currently living:

You know when you go to a new place, it is difficult to settle about and some places with the war we've lived in have been unsuitable and very tough. I didn't want that for my kids. I want them to grow up in a better place.

There is no parking close by. And if (my) kids sleep, (I) need to wait in the car till they wake up to be able to walk back to the flat. The windows are very low and with their age they can easily climb into the window. The windows are exposed, although I covered it, but as a Muslim, you know that I wear the hijab. So at home I take off my hijab. Well, when I want to open the windows for ventilation, I need to put on my hijab because it would be too exposed.

A Sanctuary Seeker

Young people described experiencing the housing system as very complicated without much help to understand the different categories and bandings of priority, for example. One young person said that seeing their Personal Advisor every eight weeks was not enough for the support and information that was needed.

Transport

Transport was described in all groups as posing several challenges; frequency of services, costs (being given discounted fares only for limited periods), navigating bus systems (especially where there are multiple companies operating with different fares) and availability of services more rurally. Delays re-issuing free travel passes caused stress and travel limitations for one family.

It was raised by the young people that in London and Surrey where Transport for London (TFL) operated, it was much easier than other areas. They had also experienced being given no or minimal advice by Personal Advisors and accommodation Support Workers respectively, which added to stress and confusion about how to travel in the most efficient way.

Health and wellbeing

Most participants had been able to register with a GP fairly easily, and there were mixed experiences with some praising care, especially of children and in one case, outstanding signposting. It was also apparent, though, that not all were aware of the scope of issues GP’s can provide support with, for example mental health. Participants also explained a lack of information and awareness around the role of Special Education Needs and Disabilities Co-ordinator (SENDCo’s) in school, and English as a second Language (EAL) support staff. Registration with an NHS dentist had only been successfully experienced by one participant, with others struggling and quoted large sums privately for needed dental work. Participants described a lack of understanding around wide reaching impacts of contextual Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) especially in adolescence, parenting, inter and intra cultural bullying.

The young people shared that it is very important to be able to talk to someone they have a trusted relationship with about anything which might be bothering them in terms of mental and emotional wellbeing. And that being heard, understood and validated is very helpful. One young person was passionate about suggesting therapy should be much more readily available, and that there needs to be far greater understanding generally about what Young Sanctuary Seekers may have experienced prior to arrival and once in the host country.

Surrey was described as a beautiful place with lovely nature, peaceful and quiet, though also isolating where transport was an issue, and especially where people were housed rurally, delayed issue of bus passes had caused already sparse public transport options to be more of a stressor for integrating into the local community and visiting other places of interest.

Being able to learn and speak better English was relevant here too so as to more fully understand communications about, and access, wellbeing opportunities and activities.

Preventing crisis and destitution

It was agreed that clear definition around the meaning of ‘Crisis and Destitution’ in this context is needed, and clearer explanation of this objective and what meeting it means.

Information about rights and support were described as not only needing to be disseminated on arrival but on an ongoing basis and in different ways due to overwhelm of traumatic experiences and adjustment in the initial stages of resettlement.

Security and safety

Participants had mixed experiences of feeling safe, often depending on housing and location. One participant described feeling generally safe in Woking because of the multicultural aspect, but unsafe at night and in their job at a local supermarket because adolescents would come in regularly and shoplift. The participant said they had not experienced anything in regard to their culture or immigration status specifically but that they would be advising their children not to go out at night when they are older due to this general cultural issue of youths in groups late at night locally, which can feel threatening, and said they would be interested to know if this was the case across Surrey and nationally too.

Young people spoke about feeling safe in Surrey, one described seeing police around generally who are always friendly but had friends in other areas of the UK who did not feel safe and had been told there was less preventative police presence in areas such as Liverpool and Manchester. They spoke particularly about the riots and one young person described feeling scared and wondering if they would need to move country, thinking ‘where to next’ because ‘I can’t change the colour of my skin.’

An adult participant described feeling safe at all times in their neighbourhood and very welcomed by many different parts of the community with meaningful GP signposting which led to inclusion and relationship building.

Access to skills and education

The adult participants discussed the experience of accessing skills and education for children and young people in their family or community. There were several examples given of the need for educators and schools be more aware of, the specific challenges that sanctuary seeker children face at different points in their development and how to provide support in these circumstances.

Examples were given of how it can be harder for Sanctuary Seekers to get diagnoses and support for children with additional needs due to lack of information and language barriers, such as a paediatrician mis-understanding a parent explaining there was no autism in their family that they were aware of. This resulted in a discharge with the note that the parent did not believe the child was autistic. It then took several months for a diagnosis to be given, which is what the parent was hoping for initially. This had an impact on schooling, and support offered which caused great stress to both parent and child.

Adult participants were keen to access various learning and courses, some advanced vocational, some to learn other skills and trades, in addition to improving English language skills but had mixed experiences around being able to find information about opportunities.

The young people all described situations of being unable to progress in ways they are trying to learn and earn money, and said whilst the objectives seemed very good, what actually happens currently is very different. One young person described being assigned to an ESOL college course by their social worker, when their language skills were already at a standard for subject study, and identification and advocacy from Big Leaf Foundation (BLF) meant they were able to undertake A-Levels instead and is now at university training as an Allied Health Professional. Another described wanting to be a barber and being told because they are over 19 years of age they would need to pay for a Level 1 course in London before being accepted for Level 2 locally. They cannot afford to pay in excess of £1,000 for this course.

Participation in the economy

Some participants described how they are struggling to make sense of how people with advanced qualifications can access suitable work. Issues around qualification recognition and networking opportunities were also raised. Some described Job Centres as being very limited in terms of what they could offer beyond basic skills job opportunities.

I personally encountered an issue with the recognition of my Master's degree from the National Technical University of Ukraine in the field of science. The UK government needs to launch a specific program for the recognition of Ukrainian diplomas, just as it does for Switzerland and other countries. Wherever I turned, I did not receive support in finding a job in the IT sector, even though programming was a core subject of my degree. Is there a list of companies that are willing to hire me according to my technical background?

A Sanctuary Seeker

Addressing barriers to economic inclusion

A recurring theme here that also came up in discussions around Health and Wellbeing and Skills and Education was the quality and availability of advance English Language Classes. It was recognised that sometimes these classes are unavailable and inaccessible despite there being a high need and desire from Sanctuary Seekers to further English skills in order to attain employment that reflects their other qualifications, skills and experience.

Advocacy and awareness building

Some participants described positive experience of making local connections, feeling supported and advocated for in adjusting and settling into life in the UK. Participants highlighted workers who they felt had passionately advocated for them. Others described more difficult experiences of receiving inadequate support and understanding from others about what they have been through and challenges they continue to face when trying to get information, advice and support about meeting the needs of themselves and their dependants.

Community and belonging

Better quality and more English classes needed were raised specifically in relation to several objectives, this being one of them, highlighting the far-reaching impact of communication skills across each area.

Wider community education around cultural understanding needed, so that local people can understand communication differences are cultural not rudeness or unwillingness to integrate. For example, Ukrainian culture in verbal interactions tends to be very direct and blunt, without saying sorry and thank you often, and no small talk, which has been something participants have had to learn to do but would also like it if other cultures in the UK understood this and that the communication difference does not represent values that are any less kind or caring.

Participants discussed that there needs to be more understanding from all service providers around both the value and complexities of peer support, with some participants describing experiences of bullying and invalidation from other sanctuary seekers within their own culture. One participant described a situation where they experienced this whilst in hospital, from a social worker who had also experienced sanctuary seeking in Surrey.

Positive experiences were shared about Libraries – that the welcoming staff with a wealth of useful information, and free children’s activities creates a sense of inclusion, belonging and feeling valued for the whole family.

The community that I’m living in is fantastic and a lot of good people, good families around, so if we want to see anyone, a neighbour, mostly we see them in the park or the community centre.

A Sanctuary Seeker

Positive experiences highlighted outcomes when the system works well, and as one participant stated:

People smiling. Cookies in the library. The little things are the big things (in reference to community-based services and connections).

A Sanctuary Seeker

Participative approach

Participants agreed the importance of continued involvement of sanctuary seekers in any work concerning this demographic and would welcome further work with SCC and partners in shaping the delivery of the strategy, with interest expressed around coming together at intervals as the delivery against this strategy progresses.

Service and provision planning and management

Participants raised throughout that although they were in full agreement with the objectives, they were keen to see the delivery mechanisms and the importance of action, accountability and outcome measures.  
Training and Support for Staff

It was suggested that all relevant staff should receive training to increase understanding around what sanctuary seeking residents and colleagues might be experiencing. The idea of a Sanctuary Seeker identity card was also put forward, which would be a card that people could give to staff for the purposes of not needing to repeat their situation each time, and the staff member instantly knowing that the person is at much higher risk and likelihood of having had traumatic experiences.

Reflection

Shared by groups verbally prior to close of final session:

• Participants felt engaged in the process, and felt it had benefited them to attend in being heard
• Participants felt safe to share their own experiences in the space
• Participants were very positive about SCC doing this engagement but felt more time would have been useful

I am confident and grateful that all who work at Surrey Council are committed to improving the lives of asylum seekers.

I just wanted to thank you, for the conversation and especially for acknowledging and validating our struggles and my personal pain.

A Sanctuary Seeker

Conclusion

The term ‘Sanctuary Seeker’ was welcomed as an overarching descriptor, with a top-line definition being put in place for clarity of meaning. Other terms, such as ‘crisis and destitution’ also require top-line definition, and further shaping of the associated objectives to be more specific in how crisis and destitution will be prevented.
All participants agreed with the draft objectives in the Surrey Wide Immigration Strategy.

Receiving and being able to find correct and full information was an experiential theme of participants throughout discussion of all the objectives, and it is important to note that many participants were not aware of Surrey County Council’s own website information page, including the SCC employee participant.

Acknowledgement of, and reference to, the various types and layers of traumatic experiences represented was an important part of helping participants feel understood and reassured in sharing their thoughts and experiences in the focus group space.
Further to the strategic objectives being confirmed, key themes highlighted were the required underpinning delivery actions, accountability and outcome measures; what these will look like, and how these will be communicated to the public.

A combination of legal loopholes, miscommunications, lack of communication, cultural misunderstanding and challenges such as being in unsuitable housing, C-PTSD, caring for children with additional needs, and many more all lead to ongoing difficulties and stressors layered on top of already very traumatic experiences.

A key recommendation is that all system workers are trained in understanding the experiences of Sanctuary Seekers through a trauma-informed lens, and that there continues to be Sanctuary Seeker involvement in the shaping of delivery planning moving forward.

Appendix 3: Methodology

As this strategy sets out the cross-county strategy framework for supporting sanctuary seekers in Surrey, it was vital that the development of the document took a collaborative, partnership approach. The following methodology, which was divided into five distinct phases, was used.

Phase 1: Desk research

This phase focused on existing information and research. It included a systematic review of existing research on the experience of, and services provided to, sanctuary seekers in Surrey. Research included relevant JSNA chapters.
Following the review of data and research, best practice examples of immigration strategies across England were reviewed to understand how other councils had approached and structured their strategic frameworks for supporting sanctuary seekers.
This desk research informed the structure and content of the first draft of the strategy.

Phase 2: Internal SCC engagement

For the second phase the first draft of the strategy was socialised with relevant colleagues in Surrey County Council. Colleagues working in Equality Diversity and Inclusion, Public Health, Education, and Homes for Ukraine were sent the draft strategy for comment, followed by detailed small group and 1:1 discussions to review and amend the content and structure of the strategy document in line with their advice.

Phase 3: External engagement

Following internal review, the draft strategy was taken to external stakeholders, with the view that the final document would need to be a joint and cross sector document that reflected the work and objectives of different partners working to support sanctuary seekers.
The draft strategy was first taken to existing thematic, task and response sub-groups including the Migrant Health subgroup, the Education and Immigration subgroup, the Homes for Ukraine subgroup and the Surrey Housing Officers’ group.
These items to existing groups were followed by a series of dedicated focus groups. Four focus groups were held, each for 1 hour. These brought together partners from District and Borough and the Voluntary Sector to discuss and review the strategies contents in detail.

Phase 4: Sanctuary Seeker focus groups

The details of this phase, along with its findings, are set out in Appendix 2 of this report. In summary, phase 4 brought together two groups of residents with lived experience of seeking sanctuary to discuss and review the contents of the strategy.

Phase 5: Governance sign off

In line with the governance structure set out in the report, this final draft of this strategy went through a robust sign-off process. The document was reviewed and agreed by the Surrey Wide Immigration Group, then the Health and Wellbeing Board and the Surrey Chief

Executives group

Collaborating partners were encouraged to take the draft strategy through their relevant internal governance channels. In Surrey County Council the Corporate Leadership Team and the informal Cabinet reviewed and approved the strategy document.

The final strategy document is a culmination of all this engagement and collaboration, building in all the feedback, suggestions and amendments suggested along the way to produce a robust and co-produced strategic framework for Surrey.

Acknowledgements

On behalf of the Surrey Wide Immigration Group (SWIG) and Surrey’s Public Health and Partnerships leadership, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to the development of the Surrey Wide Immigration Strategy.

This strategy is the product of deep collaboration and shared commitment across the Surrey system. Our thanks go to colleagues across local government, health services, education, the voluntary, community and faith sectors, and regional and national partners who have all brought invaluable expertise and insight to this work.

Most importantly, we wish to thank the sanctuary seekers who generously shared their experiences and perspectives throughout the engagement process. Their voices are at the heart of this strategy, shaping not only our shared vision but also the actions we commit to taking. Their courage, resilience and honesty have grounded our work in lived reality.

We acknowledge the valuable contributions of Jenny Cave-Jones (Research Officer, Research & Intelligence Unit) and Bashir Fatehi (Immigration Manager, Communities & Partnerships, Public Health) for leading the sanctuary seeker engagement process with empathy, professionalism and care.

We are also deeply grateful to Bashir Fatehi Immigration Strategy Lead, and Hannah Dirks Corporate Strategy and Policy Lead, whose leadership, coordination, and strategic oversight have been instrumental in shaping a responsive and inclusive strategy for Surrey.

This strategy is not the end of the journey but the start of a more coordinated and values-led approach to supporting sanctuary seekers in our county. We are committed to working with partners and people with lived experience to turn strategy into action, and ambition into real, positive change on the ground.

As the national and local contexts continue to evolve, so too must our approach. This strategy will remain a living document – one we revisit, review and refine as we learn together. We are proud to stand alongside everyone involved in this work, and remain committed to making Surrey a place where sanctuary is not only offered, but truly felt.

Ruth Hutchinson
Chair, Surrey Wide Immigration Group
Director of Public Health and Communities

Our partners

Borough and District councils

• Elmbridge Borough Council
• Epsom and Ewell Borough Council
• Guildford Borough Council
• Mole Valley District Council
• Reigate and Banstead Borough Council
• Runnymede Borough Council
• Spelthorne Borough Council
• Surrey Heath Borough Council
• Tandridge District Council
• Waverley Borough Council
• Woking Borough Council

Charities and other organisations

• Big Leaf Foundation
• Barnardo's
• Central Surrey Voluntary Action
• Epsom and Ewell Refugee Network
• Elmbridge Community Action Network (CAN)
• Surrey Drug and Alcohol Care (SDAC)
• Hongkongers in Britain
• Stripey Stork
• Woking Foodbank together with Trussell
• Citizens Advice Bureaux Surrey Heath