Thanks for signing our petition calling on Weston Town Council to find ways to make Weston welcoming to asylum seekers, including continuing consideration of becoming a Council of Sanctuary.

 We were very proud to present the petition of over 1,000 signatures to a council meeting last night. Sadly, the council decided to reverse it’s earlier decision and has now withdrawn from the scheme and refused a proposal to form a working group to explore options.

This seems a very sad day for Weston, it feels like the decision was very much influenced by the loud voices on social media and outside the meeting who may feel unhappy about the current state of our country but are blaming the wrong people for this.

If you’re feeling negative, here’s some positive things you can do - 

• Councillors argued that there is no need for further work on this issue because Weston is already very welcoming. If you live in Weston, you could write to your town councillor to ask what they’re doing to make Weston welcoming to asylum seekers and immigrants, and what resources are available for you to share. Their details are at www.wsm-tc.gov.uk 
• If you haven’t already, find out about The Other Place – a new community resource which hosts positive, uplifting events in Weston.  www.theotherplace.org.uk. 
• Visit the website of Race Equality North Somerset to find out what great work they do and join their mailing list www.rens.org.uk 

Thanks again for your support

Louise Branch  

Secretary  

Weston & North Somerset Trades Union Council