Full Council agenda

Proposed · This went to the meeting on Wed 18 Mar 2026. What was decided is in that meeting's minutes.

Full Council is due to meet on 18 March 2026 at 6.00pm in the Council Chamber at Muriel Matters House, Hastings. p1

The motion proposes that the council support Refugee Week 2026 (15 to 21 June) by working with the Refugee Buddy Project and local cultural organisations, nominating a council representative to a planning group, and exploring in-kind support and funding. p8p9

The motion notes that the Refugee Buddy Project runs the Safe Havens scheme, in which more than 40 local businesses and community venues display a sticker to show they are a safe space for people who feel at risk of racism, harassment or harm. p10

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• p1Full Council — agenda, 18/03/2026 6.00 pm Council Chamber, Muriel Matters House, Breeds Place, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 3UY. Please enter the building through the Contact Centre entrance via the seafront.
• p875. Motion (Rule 14) Councillor Barnett to proposed: This Council notes: The ongoing contribution of the Refugee Buddy Project, which has (since 2017 when this council formally adopted a motion for Hastings to be a Community of Sanctuary) provided vital community?led support to people seeking refuge in Hastings and St Leonards. The project has successfully built strong networks of hundreds of local volunteers (“ Buddys ”), creating a welcoming environment for newly arrived families and individuals. It has strengthened community cohesion through shared cultural, social, and wellbeing activities, helping to reduce isolation and promote belonging. And in two key areas of success: a) Community Integration and Social Cohesion The Refugee Buddy Project has demonstrated that personalised, volunteer?led support significantly improves integration outcomes. Participants report increased confidence, improved English language skills, and meaningful social connections. The project also fosters understanding and solidarity among local residents through events, shared learning, and community participation. b) Cultural and Creative Contribution Through initiatives such as Stitch for Change, Flavours Without Borders, community meals, and collaborative arts and storytelling projects, the Refugee Buddy Project has become a recognised contributor to the cultural life of Hastings. These activities celebrate diversity, amplify lived experience, and engage local partners—including arts organisations, colleges, and community venues. This Council recognises: The importance of continuing to build a culture of welcome in Hastings, especially in the context of national rhetoric and increased pressures on refugee communities. The role of Refugee Week every June as a national and local platform for education, culture, awareness?raising, and celebration.
• p9The unique opportunity Refugee Week 2026 (June 15-21) presents in Hastings to align with local arts partners, schools, cultural venues, and community groups to promote inclusion and civic pride. This Council believes: That the Refugee Buddy Project is a valuable asset to the borough, contributing both socially and culturally. That strong strategic support from the Local Authority can strengthen Refugee Week 2026, ensuring it becomes a flagship programme for Hastings and an example of best practice in community participation. This Council therefore resolves to: Formally recognise and commend the Refugee Buddy Project for its contribution to community cohesion and cultural enrichment. Support Refugee Week 2026 by working in partnership with the Refugee Buddy Project and local cultural organisations to develop a coordinated programme of public events and activities. Nominate a Council representative to join a planning and coordination group for Refugee Week 2026. Identify opportunities for in?kind support, including venue use, communications, publicity, and officer engagement where appropriate. Explore potential funding pathways or partnership mechanisms to strengthen delivery of Refugee Week 2026 and ensure broad participation across the borough. Background Information : The Refugee Buddy Project is a community?based, refugee & migrant led organisation that provides practical and social support to people seeking refuge in Hastings and St Leonards. The project coordinates local volunteers who offer one?to?one buddying, orientation support, and connections to community resources. Alongside this, the organisation delivers a range of cultural and creative programmes—including sewing, storytelling, shared meals, and collaborative workshops—that help reduce isolation, build confidence, and support integration.
• p10The project works in partnership with local venues, cultural organisations, education providers, and community groups to create inclusive spaces for participation and ensure newly arrived residents can access social networks and opportunities within the town. The Refugee Buddy Project manages the Safe Havens project, launched in 2023 in response to rising levels of hostility and fear faced by people from refugee and migrant backgrounds. More than 40 local businesses and community venues display a clear window sticker to show they are a safe and supportive space for anyone who feels at risk of racism, harassment or harm. These businesses are trained to provide appropriate support to anyone needing help.