Lewisham Council Strengthens Migrant Support and Reviews Immigration Enforcement Cooperation

July 26, 2026

South London News On Your Doorstep Desk Edited By Jimmy Nsubuga

Lewisham Council has approved a motion to strengthen support for migrant communities and review its cooperation with immigration enforcement activity. The motion, titled "Building an anti-raids sanctuary corridor in and beyond Lewisham," was passed at Full Council on 22 July 2026.

Council Commits to Reviewing Immigration Enforcement Interactions

The motion commits the council to undertaking a review of its systems, processes, and data-sharing arrangements to assess how council services interact with immigration enforcement activity. This review aims to ensure that council services do not inadvertently facilitate or support immigration enforcement actions. The council will also work with community partners to ensure migrant residents and businesses have access to information about their legal rights and available support. This includes collaborating with the Lewisham Migration Forum to strengthen trauma-informed, anti-racist, care, and evidence-based approaches to supporting migrant communities.

Developing a Sanctuary Corridor

Furthermore, the motion commits Lewisham Council to working with other local authorities to develop an "anti-raids sanctuary corridor." This initiative will involve close collaboration with migrant and law centres, anti-raids networks, faith, and community groups to enhance Lewisham's existing sanctuary programmes. This move positions Lewisham as a leader in establishing a network of support for migrant communities across London. The council has previously been recognised as the UK's first Borough of Sanctuary in 2021.

The decision follows a period of increased immigration enforcement activity in the borough, with figures indicating a significant rise in raids. The motion's proponents have stated that such actions can spread fear and make it harder for victims of modern slavery and trafficking to come forward.

Context and Comparison

The average Band D council tax across London in 2026 was approximately £2,068, with individual boroughs varying significantly. Lewisham's specific council tax rate for 2026/27 was not detailed in the provided text, but it falls within the mid-range of London boroughs, typically between £1,400 and £1,800. The council has various funding streams for community support, including its Main Grants Programme, which allocated £2,112,308 for 2026-2029, partly funded by the council's budget and the Better Care Fund.

Author

South London News On Your Doorstep Desk Edited By Jimmy Nsubuga

From Town Hall decisions to resident-led reports, the South London News On Your Doorstep Desk offers comprehensive coverage of the issues that matter to your street. Our editorial staff provide critical updates on local planning, council services, and neighbourhood initiatives, ensuring our readers never miss a change to their local area.

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