12 different events were held in Barnsley celebrating Refugee Week in June 2026. The highlight was the key note address by Rev Inderjit Bhogal on Tuesday 16th June 2026 speaking about Hospitality and Sanctuary for All. Attended by 43 people, the experiences of people with lived experience with both moving and thought provoking.

On Thursday 18th June 2026, Horizon Community College was awarded a Schools of Sanctuary, the first second secondary school in Barnsley to be awarded this. The presentation was made by previous Deputy Mayor Cllr Jo Newing.

Art competition prizes were also presented. Many Labour and Liberal Democrat Councillors were present at this Award Ceremony.

Amongst the many other events during the week, Whispered Tales presented ‘Refuge Island ‘ a thought provoking dance followed by discussions and questions at St.John’s Primary in Penistone and to a public audience at YMCA in Barnsley on Thursday 18th June 2026.

Please send us your reports and photos of Refugee Week you may have.