Issued by City of York Council
York’s City of Sanctuary initiative is the first organisation to benefit from a new bursary scheme, set up by City of York Council, to enable people to access cultural activities who wouldn’t normally be able to do so.
Councillor Sonja Crisp, City of York Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism, said: “The Cultural Bursaries Scheme of £600 per year will allow partner organisations to purchase tickets for cultural or sporting activities for vulnerable individuals and families.
“York has a vision, supported through the York Equality Scheme, for an equal and inclusive city where everyone is able to enjoy long, healthy and fulfilling lives. A chance to experience culture and leisure opportunities is an important part of this.”
City of York Council signed up to support The City of Sanctuary initiative in 2011. The initiative aims to make York a city where residents and community groups work together to create a place of welcome, safety and security for anyone in need of welcome or who needs to claim sanctuary.
Paul Wordsworth, York City of Sanctuary co-ordinator said: “Our primary aim is to provide a clear welcome and significant support to those who arrive in York needing sanctuary and security.
“Our work also includes providing opportunities for both individuals and families to appreciate the rich heritage and culture of the city.
“We provide guidance to places where they can access social and leisure skills. Sadly, some of those activities are not available due to lack of finance on the part of the individuals concerned and our own organisation.
“We know that enabling people to take part in the life of the city is one sure way to help them feel included, secure, and integrated in the community.
“I look forward to sharing the Cultural Bursary Fund with sanctuary seekers of all ages, living here in York. I know it will open up new avenues to explore.”
Details of the fund will be given to other relevant organisations in York later this year and these will be invited to access funding from April 2014. Allocation decisions will be made by March 2014.
This content has not been created by YorkMix but by one of our trusted news sources. YorkMix is not responsible for the accuracy of the text.