SWANSEA has become the first city in Wales to be officially recognised as a City of Sanctuary.

The scheme is a movement to build a culture of hospitality for people seeking refuge in the UK.

Organisers say they are delighted Swansea has been given the accolade, following a successful meeting with The National City of Sanctuary in Coventry.

Alan Thomas, co-ordinator of the Swansea group, met with the officials.

He said: "We gave a presentation outlining what has been achieved in Swansea so far, and showed the rough cut of our new film.

"We were extremely well- received and have been awarded national recognition so that Swansea is now the UK's second City of Sanctuary."

The scheme aims to create a network of towns and cities throughout the UK which are proud to be places of safety for people who have fled from violence or persecution. The City of Sanctuary movement began in 2005 in Sheffield, with the city being given the status two years later.

In order to gain recognition, a community has to show it is a place where the skills and cultures of people seeking sanctuary are valued — and contribute to the life of the city.

It also has to show people seeking refuge can easily build relationships with local people as neighbours, friends and colleagues.

Moves to have Swansea officially recognised as a City of Sanctuary began in June 2008 with the setting-up of a steering group.

Since then, it obtained pledges of support from more than 100 local groups and organisations, as well as the city council.

Craig Barnett, national coordinator of City of Sanctuary, said he was impressed that those seeking sanctuary were integrated into the community in Swansea.

He said: "The status recognises the achievement of the ordinary people of Swansea, who have made their city a place where people in need of safety can find friendship, rebuild their lives and give something back to their new home."

The achievement will be celebrated at a special event in the Guildhall on Monday, June 21.

ben.wright@swwmedia.co.uk