Get to know the Durham Local Immigration Partnership

Whether you are a newcomer or long-time resident, the Durham Local Immigration Partnership (Durham LIP) and its Community and Inclusion Plan, entitled We All Belong Here, are, help ensure that Durham Region is a place where everyone is welcome.

Created in 2009, and funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Durham LIP connects more than 100 local service providers, schools and businesses. Local Immigration Partnerships like the Durham LIP exist across Canada to help communities come together to better understand and respond to the needs of newcomers.

As Durham grows and welcomes people from many different parts of the world, the Durham LIP is a valuable connection point for newcomers and the people who support them. It watches for new trends, learns what the community needs, and helps partners work as a team.

Belonging and thriving

People who call Durham home speak almost every language and represent nearly every culture.

Not only does this give us a competitive advantage—allowing us to access markets around the world—it also brings insights, innovation and traditions, from around the world, to our doorstep.

Newcomer Advisory Table member Faizan, sees firsthand the benefits of the Durham LIP. “The support networks, community events, and the Region’s openness make the transition smoother for newcomers, helping us integrate and contribute to this growing and diverse population.”

This strong sense of belonging helps to drive leadership, collaboration and innovation within a talented local workforce.

Guiding the work

With insight from local leaders and experts, Durham LIP supports long‑term planning that helps build welcoming, supportive communities. It also ensures that immigration remains a key focus in regional priorities.

Guiding its work is the 2025 to 2030 Community and Inclusion Plan. It focuses on supporting newcomers through their whole journey, from the time they arrive, to finding a job, to feeling like they have found their new home.

At its core, the Community and Inclusion Plan emphasizes:

• Making it easier for people to find services, so they can access the right support when they need it.
• Strengthening newcomer voices so people with lived experience shape solutions.
• Fostering meaningful connections between newcomers and the broader community.
• Celebrating newcomer achievements and contributions.

It also acknowledges that newcomer needs are constantly evolving and prioritizes adaptability and strong co-ordination across the settlement sector, so it can respond quickly to emerging challenges and opportunities.

You can learn more about Durham LIP online at durhamimmigration.ca.

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