At Calderdale Valley of Sanctuary, we believe that understanding and awareness are key to building a truly welcoming community. That’s why we offer free training sessions to organisations looking to better support refugees and people seeking asylum. This January, we had the pleasure of delivering two such sessions—one with Invictus Wellbeing and another with the team at Hardcastle Crags.

Our training sessions start with the basics of the asylum system, providing essential knowledge on how it works and the challenges people face. From there, we tailor discussions to the specific needs of each organisation, ensuring that participants gain practical insights relevant to their sector. Whether it’s mental health support, community services, or visitor engagement, we help teams develop the confidence and understanding needed to offer a warm and inclusive welcome.

One of the most impactful parts of our training is hearing directly from those who have sought sanctuary. Lived experience brings depth and authenticity to these sessions, offering real-world perspectives that challenge misconceptions and build empathy. This month, we were fortunate to be joined by two of our dedicated volunteers, Penny and Theja, who shared their personal journeys. Their contributions were invaluable, sparking meaningful discussions and creating deeper connections between participants and the issues at hand.

We’re passionate about continuing to widen welcome, one training session at a time. If your organisation would like to learn more about the asylum system and how to be a more inclusive space for those seeking sanctuary, get in touch with Blake to book a free training session.

Together, we can make Calderdale a more welcoming place for all.