Welcome to Shops of Sanctuary

Please note, unfortunately, due to funding constraints, we lack staff capacity to support the expansion of the the Shops of Sanctuary network at this time. If you are interested in pursuing a Sanctuary Award for a shop, please contact us at [email protected] so we can advise about our current ability to work on an awards process with you. We also have a network of City of Sanctuary groups across the UK and may be able to link you to the closest one to support further exchange around sanctuary initiatives in your area.

We are a movement of charity shops that are working to be a safe and inclusive place for all.

In 2014, City of Sanctuary recognised the Oxfam Swansea Castle Street shop as the first recipient of the Shop of Sanctuary award. The fantastic work done by the team there to support people seeking sanctuary  inspired the whole network. 

Working with Oxfam, we have developed additional resources to support all charity shops keen to create a culture of welcome and inclusion.

If you would like to learn more about how your local charity shop can become a place of sanctuary, please check out the Shops of Sanctuary resource pack.