Jane Hutt MS, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Trefnydd and Chief Whip
Wales’ Nation of Sanctuary policy is about responsibly managing and harnessing the opportunities which migration brings to Wales. Over this Senedd term, our approach has provided consistent, practical support to people placed in Wales and seeking sanctuary, helping them rebuild their lives and contribute to the well-being of Wales. Although delivery of the Nation of Sanctuary approach represents only around 0.05% of the Welsh Government’s overall budget, its impact across integration, community cohesion and people’s wellbeing is clear.
It is important to clarify what the Nation of Sanctuary approach does - and what it does not do. It does not decide who comes to the UK; immigration and asylum decisions rest entirely with the UK Government. Our role in Wales is to shape people’s experience once they arrive, ensuring they can access mainstream services from day one, receive accurate information, and rebuild their lives with dignity.
A core part of this early support is preventing harm, including avoiding homelessness, and ensuring children and young people receive the safeguarding and stability they need from the outset.
Through our approach, people seeking sanctuary are able to contribute their skills and contribute to community life and, where they have the right to work, take up employment that strengthens Welsh public services, fills critical workforce gaps and supports local businesses. For those not yet permitted to work, volunteering and skills development enable them to contribute to their communities and prepare for future employment once they gain the right to work
To read the full statement please select the following link: Written Statement: Nation of Sanctuary: Wales’ Approach to People Seeking Sanctuary (9 February 2026) | GOV.WALES.