Union Chapel, the working church and celebrated music venue in Islington, north London, has been awarded Church of Sanctuary status by the City of Sanctuary movement – a national network of individuals and organisations committed to creating a culture of welcome, safety and inclusion for people affected by forced displacement.
Whilst many people will be familiar with Union Chapel for the live music it has presented over the years – including Amy Winehouse, Björk, Billy Bragg, Ed Sheeran and Elton John – they may not know that as well being a community of churchgoers, it is also home to two projects that provide support to homeless people, asylum seekers, refugees and migrants.
The award of Church of Sanctuary status recognises Union Chapel’s long-standing work across all areas of its community, demonstrating excellence in learning about the experiences of people seeking sanctuary, embedding inclusive practices in a sustainable way, and sharing that vision with others — including churches, faith communities and the wider public.
Union Chapel Minister the Reverend Cathy Bird will accept the award on behalf of the church from Inderjit Bhogal OBE, founder of the City of Sanctuary movement, at a special afternoon event on Sunday 22 March, Union Chapel hosts a celebration of Islington as a Borough of Sanctuary – it designated a Borough of Sanctuary in 2023, reflecting its commitment to welcoming and supporting refugees, migrants and asylum seekers.
Councillor Sheila Chapman, Islington’s Executive Member for Equalities, Communities & Inclusion will also attend the event, which takes place in the Upper Hall from 2.30pm to 6pm.
Food will be provided by Margins, Union Chapel’s food project supporting people experiencing homelessness and marginalisation. The event is free, though advance booking is required.
Reverend Cathy Bird, Minister of Union Chapel, said:
“Receiving Church of Sanctuary status is a profound honour and a testament to the dedication and compassion shown by everyone across the Union Chapel family. This recognition reflects not just what we do, but who we are – a community built on welcome, solidarity and inclusion – increasingly important when there is so much division and isolation. To receive the certificate from Inderjit Bhogal himself, the visionary founder of this movement, makes this moment all the more meaningful. We are proud to stand alongside Islington as a Borough of Sanctuary and remain committed to being a place of genuine refuge and belonging for all.”
The 22 March event is free to attend but places are limited — attendees are asked to book in advance at boroughofsanctuary.eventbrite.co.uk.
