Thanks for your help and support across the past year. If you have any suggestions or comments, or you no longer wish to receive communications from us, then please tell us by emailing [email protected]
Since our first meeting in November 2023, we now have over 75 individual local contacts representing over 20 local organisations. Thankfully, last summer’s riots did not extend to those resident at the Park Hotel. However, the rise of right-wing nationalist politics in the UK, mainland Europe and beyond and the deepening crises in the Middle East, Africa, Eastern Europe and elsewhere make the need for us all to stand together with those seeking sanctuary ever more important. Thanks to you all.
Much work has continued across the year here in Diss to support those in need, regardless of whether they are connected to our group or not. We had active support from many individuals and organisations – too many to list but including the Corn Hall, the county and district councils, Citizens Advice Bureau, DesignerMakers21, the International café at the United Reform Church, Diss library, the Methodist church, Number 8 and the Salvation Army. These are much appreciated.
Since that first meeting Diss Town of Sanctuary has formed a steering group of 15 members that meets monthly. We have forged closer links with Norwich City of Sanctuary and thank them for their support and interest. We have organised craft events, film at the Corn Hall exploring the refugee experience and been represented at the Burston Strike Rally. Some members and supporters have joined vigils linked to Gaza, stood side by side with those in need of sanctuary and challenged those opportunists seeking to exploit the misery of others. We want to do much more in 2025. If you would like to join us, please contact us via our email above.
A big meal
In December we were able to facilitate a communal meal for over 40 of the Park Hotel’s residents. They are provided with basic ‘chips with everything’ food at the hotel and wanted to be able to cook food from their own cultures. Some of us went food shopping with a few residents. The Salvation Army generously provided access to their kitchen and communal dining facilities, and we had financial support from Norwich City of Sanctuary and individual donors.
No one quite knew how it would work out but on the ‘ninth day before Christmas’ six volunteer cooks arrived mid-morning and cooked for over 40. We weren’t sure how many would come but by mid-day the hall was packed and the food ready! Everyone enjoyed it greatly and wanted to know when they could come again. We are hoping to repeat this in the new year and already have a list of volunteer cooks waiting for their opportunity.
Following discussions at the meal with Aziz, the hotel’s activities co-ordinator, we then provided 40 party bags with sweets and nuts etc for the hotel’s children over the festive period. Thanks again for individual donations to facilitate this.
2025
Our plans for this year include continuing to build on all the work to date, further formalising our links with the national sanctuary movement and continuing cooking opportunities and other activities for Park hotel residents. The next big meal is scheduled for February.
We are also partners in two potential projects for 2025. Led by the CAB, we hope to help provide a community kitchen for all those in need of such facilities here in Diss. The other, funded by the Arts Council, will involve celebrating the recent years’ increasing cultural diversity in the area.
Finally, many thanks to Diss Freemasons for raising £181 to support our work – it is greatly appreciated – and to all of you for your ideas, help and support. Every best wish for 2025.
Diss Town of Sanctuary January 2025