Why become a University of Sanctuary?

Becoming a University of Sanctuary contributes to the delivery of institutional strategies relating to equality, diversity, inclusivity, social responsibility, and sustainability. It also enriches campus life and academic discussion by bringing new perspectives and cultures together.

Through becoming a University of Sanctuary, universities can:

• Demonstrate a clear commitment to supporting equal access to higher education
• Extend the scope of Widening Access and Widening Participation work in a way that explicitly values diversity
• Take clear steps towards creating a university environment that is a welcoming to all, in a way that directly contributes to increasing inclusivity
• Learn how to develop teaching and learning on the themes of migration and sanctuary
• Develop new strands of public-facing outreach and community engagement work that contributes to social responsibility efforts
• Become a part of a dynamic group of universities working to improve the culture of sanctuary in higher education and in society generally

Following accreditation, Universities will be listed as a University of Sanctuary on the University of Sanctuary website and will be able to promote their recognition.

How long does it take to become a University of Sanctuary?

There is no standard or expected length of time to complete the process and every University has a different context and therefore their journey to becoming a University of Sanctuary is unique.

Some universities have a long history of supporting people from sanctuary seeking backgrounds and running sanctuary related initiatives, whilst others may have just started, for example, by welcoming one or a few students through Sanctuary Scholarships. A good application and process is one which is intentional and reflective, whereby a university review and refine their practice as part of the process to strengthen their connections and engagement with the various stakeholders involved, including good engagement with the local City of Sanctuary group or refugee organisation, and receptiveness to constructive feedback, ideas, and suggestions from the local community.

In general, we suggest that universities commit to spending at least a full academic year completing the process. As City of Sanctuary UK implement application deadlines, please liaise with us in advance to confirm a suitable application submission date.