Abergavenny Town of Sanctuary was set up in 2016. It’s initial purpose was to forge links between Abergavenny and learners attending ESOL classes at the Welsh Refugee Council. Later in 2016 three Syrian families came to live in Abergavenny via the government’s Resettlement Scheme.
There are now seven Syrian families and four families from Afghanistan. We support families in a multitude of ways, but essentially offer a network of support, opportunity and community that new families and volunteers can draw from.
We have maintained links with people seeking sanctuary in Newport and Cardiff and organise walks, days out and picnics so people can socialise , practise English and enjoy the beautiful countryside.
We also campaign for the rights of people seeking sanctuary and attempt to counter the negative narrative which permeates the media.