Refugees and asylum seekers in Birmingham have voiced deep concerns about the city’s future in light of what they see as shifting attitudes and increasingly divisive politics. The unease comes after Birmingham Reform councillors controversially called for the city council to withdraw from the City of Sanctuary scheme and refuse involvement in any new voluntary refugee sponsorship programs.
The motion sparked fierce opposition from other council parties and was ultimately defeated. Nevertheless, its proposal caused sadness and anxiety among refugees and their advocates in Birmingham.
Algar Goredema-Braid, a Zimbabwean migrant who has lived in Birmingham for nearly 40 years, described her reaction to the motion as a “mixture of anger, disdain, and pity.” She recalled a time when refugees were warmly welcomed and integrated into the city, a stark contrast to the current divisions she observes.
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“For many years, people came here and prospered without fear of discrimination because of their background or accent,” she said. “It’s heartbreaking to see the divisions now, often fueled by divisive leadership and media rhetoric.”
She hopes for an open dialogue with councillors, believing that honest conversation could bridge understanding. “I just want to sit down with them, have a cup of tea, and genuinely connect,” she added.
Charley Jacobs, originally from South Africa, emphasized how crucial the City of Sanctuary status is in maintaining Birmingham as a welcoming place. “Without it, refugees and asylum seekers risk being unfairly scapegoated,” she warned. “Many are essential workers—carers, doctors—who contribute immensely to the city.”
Angel, from Albania, found the idea of making the city less welcoming “deeply upsetting,” stressing that Birmingham’s identity is rooted in dignity, kindness, and inclusion.
Temitayo Ajayi, a Nigerian resident, spoke about the supportive environment the City of Sanctuary provides, saying it gave her the confidence and help she needed. She confessed that Reform’s motion left her feeling scared. “I urge councillors to show compassion and consider the real struggles these individuals face every day.”
Mansour Masoud, who arrived in Birmingham in 2017, expressed optimism about the city’s multicultural future. “Seeing Birmingham as a diverse and inclusive city gives me hope. Continuing the City of Sanctuary program is a vital relief for many like me who want to contribute positively.”
Since 2015, Birmingham has proudly held City of Sanctuary status, supporting refugees through resettlement initiatives, partnerships, and community services aimed at helping individuals rebuild their lives.
The controversial motion put forward by Reform councillors Graham Green and Cherie Waddingham cited pressures on housing, local services, and finances as reasons for withdrawing from the scheme.
“The council’s primary duty is to existing Birmingham residents and providing high-quality public services,” they argued, insisting resources should prioritize these needs.
Cllr Green criticized the city’s previous leadership for leaving Birmingham “in a shambles,” emphasizing loyalty to long-term residents. Reform group leader Cllr Jex Parkin framed the motion as simply putting the city first and improving service delivery.
The Conservative group, supporting withdrawal, also highlighted housing shortages affecting people “of all races and faiths,” urging focus on all residents equally.
However, other councillors strongly rejected these arguments. Green Cllr Jane Baston called Birmingham a city that thrives on diversity, while Labour group leader Cllr Nicky Brennan criticized Reform for missing an opportunity to address issues meaningfully.
Independent Cllr Nosheen Khalid stressed that prioritizing Birmingham does not justify exploiting vulnerable populations politically.
Shari Brown, chair of Birmingham City of Sanctuary, added clarity on funding, noting that finances for asylum seekers are ringfenced and withdrawing sanctuary status would not alleviate citywide challenges.
“Concerns about housing, health, and employment affect everyone and should include vulnerable people, not exclude them,” she said. “Compassion and fiscal responsibility can go hand in hand.”
Reform insists it seeks to represent all communities and faiths, but the debate reveals ongoing tensions in how Birmingham balances its values of inclusivity with pressing local concerns.