Why we’re here

A large banner with the message "Refugees Welcome" hangs on the front of an ornate historical building with a clock tower, against a clear blue sky.

Who we are

Sanctus is a support group for refugees and people who are seeking asylum in the UK. We aim to walk alongside people who find their way to us, from all around the world, in a non judgemental and safe environment.

We welcome asylum seeker from Stoke on Trent, North Staffordshire, and further afield to all our drop-in sessions and other activities.

A woman holding a coffee mug sitting at a table with a man. The man has his hands clasped on the table. There are two cups of coffee, one with latte art and one with foam, on the table. Part of a green plant is visible in the foreground.

Who we serve

We welcome women, men and children, without prejudice, of all faiths, lifestyles, ages, nationalities, ethnicities, sexualities, gender identification and social circumstances.


Safety, Refuge, Acceptance, Love

Sanctus exists to welcome, support and walk alongside people who are isolated, due to leaving behind the country of their birth to seek sanctuary in the UK. Our name comes from the Latin word which means Holy. We believe that there is no action more holy than welcoming and loving people.

We know that faith is an important aspect of many peoples lives, and is often the reason why they have fled from the country of their birth. And so we aim for our welcome to reflect and acknowledge that, offering support to people of all faiths and none.

Asylum Seekers and Refugees from Stoke on Trent and across North Staffordshire are welcome to drop in.

Refugees and asylum seekers in Stoke-on-Trent are invited to DROP-IN on a Thursday morning, for a listening ear, help with bureaucracy, a informal English lessons, support with accommodation and assistance with food, baby equipment, family support and assistance with accessing a legal representative.

The drop-in sessions are supported by a team of committed volunteers, Sexual Health Services, Refugee and asylum nursing team (including mental health), The Department for Work and Pensions, Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce  and other organisations.

Our world is in crisis, as millions of people move from one place to another in search of safety and hope.

There are currently an estimated 122 million people displaced around the world, and we cannot turn the other way and pretend that we do not see them.

It is time for us to open our arms. and open our hearts, as we begin to discover that together we can make a difference!