The Diocese of Canterbury has appointed a new Anglican Refugee Support lead to work in Calais.

The role is the outcome of a partnership between the Diocese in Europe, the Diocese of Canterbury and the Anglican mission agency USPG.

It is a response to the growing numbers of migrants around the Channel ports in Northern France.

Bradon Muilenberg, who has taken on the new role, will assist asylum seekers and build partnerships with local churches, community groups, organisations, agencies, and charities.

Leaders Rev Peter Hooper, Archdeacon of France, and Rev Duncan Dormor, General Secretary of USPG, who recognise the Church of England’s unique role in supporting this humanitarian work, have welcomed the appointment. Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin, the bishop of Canterbury, has also underscored the need to treat all individuals with dignity, care, and respect.

Jonathan Arnold, executive director of the Social Justice Network, said: "We are delighted to welcome the new Anglican Refugee Support Lead to Calais, who will be working ecumenically and collaboratively in Northern France to help those who have fled danger, war, oppression, the consequences of climate change or other dangers to try and find safety.

“Bradon has great experience working in houses of hospitality and living alongside displaced people. We will be working together to plan new partnerships and projects for those in need. I am thrilled that the partnership between the Social Justice Network in Canterbury Diocese, USPG and the Diocese in Europe can make this happen."