In 2026, Norwich City of Sanctuary set out to collect a thousand messages of hope from the city, to create a giant display at The Forum during Refugee Week, bringing small acts of kindness, connection and compassion into full view. We were overwhelmed by the response from all sectors of society, from churches, gardens, schools, refugee charities, libraries, colleges and UEA.
Our “Hope Happens Here” campaign demonstrates what a welcoming – and HOPEFUL – Norwich looks like. We know that small acts of kindness, connection and solidarity are the foundations for building communities in which everyone feels safe, supported and able to thrive as our friends, neighbours and colleagues.
It can sometimes feel like stories of division and negativity dominate the headlines. But that’s not the full picture. All around us, people are:
- Welcoming new neighbours
- Volunteering their time
- Offering friendship and solidarity
- Standing up for fairness and compassion
These are the everyday stories of hope that often go untold. Our “Hope Happens Here” campaign is about changing that. Together, we want to shine a light on the positive actions and hopeful ambitions that shape our city, and remind ourselves that there is far more that connects us than divides us.
