A THEATRE is a place where people can escape the daily stresses of life for a couple of hours, but for some, Bolton's Octagon is a place where they can forget unimaginable terror and look to the future.

The Octagon has become one of only a handful of theatres across the country to be recognised for its work with refugees and asylum seekers.

It took centre stage to be awarded Theatre of Sanctuary Status celebrating its commitment to becoming a welcoming and safe place.

City of Sanctuary movement recognised the theatre’s approach to connecting with people through dinner parties, open days, productions and theatre groups for refugees.

Flight, performed recently in Octagon Theatre’s Reveal Festival, helped raise awareness of the issues facing many asylum seekers and refugees.

This was a newly-commissioned play by writer Nuzhat Ali which explored the dilemma of one man facing the relentless destruction of his city, his home and his family in Syria.

The theatre also runs a women-only weekly storytelling and music session led by drama facilitators from the theatre.

The sessions give women refugees and asylum seekers the chance to use singing, movement and stories to build confidence, improve English language skills and meet new friendly people.

Octagon artistic director Elizabeth Newman said: "I am so proud and thrilled to be accepting this award on behalf of theatre. We are committed to being an open and safe place for people to come to and have worked with key partners across Bolton to engage people in an authentic and meaningful way which has helped make a real difference in Bolton."

The award was presented to Miss Newman and head of creative engagement Deborah Dickinson at the Newcastle Civic Centre National Awards City of Sanctuary annual meeting.