A new category, the Champion Award was given to the AIRE Centre, which for twenty years has helped ensure that individuals and families benefit from the rights they are entitled to under European law.

UNHCR’s Representative to the UK Roland Schilling said: ‘These awards are a humbling reminder of how refugees contribute to the towns and cities where they live, how they bring people together and create an environment of understanding and friendship. The awards also highlight Britain’s proud history and continuing openness to providing a safe haven for people fleeing persecution from all around the world.’