This status has been awarded by City of Sanctuary, a charity that works with groups, organisations and individuals across every area and every sector in the UK to promote inclusivity, solidarity and compassion for those seeking sanctuary. Our membership serves as a reminder of an ongoing commitment to creating a culture of safety, inclusion and support, which is central to our strategic focus in fostering Vibrant and Inclusive Communities.
A celebration event was held on Friday 3 October in the Jennings Council Chamber and was attended by academics, sanctuary scholarship holders, senior leaders, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) representatives and visitors from the local community.
Three key representatives from the University and refugees and asylum seekers held speeches in honour of the award:
- The Vice Chancellor and President, Professor Nick Jennings
- Chair of LUSARG and Dean of the School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering, Professor Malcolm Cook
- Chair of Loughborough Town of Sanctuary, Stephen Moses
Speaking about the award, the Vice-Chancellor said: "I am immensely proud of the University’s commitment to supporting our academics and students at risk. Becoming a University of Sanctuary is testament to the fact that Loughborough is a place where talent can flourish, regardless of the circumstances that brought someone to our door.
"This award is a celebration of Loughborough’s commitment to being a university that truly creates better futures, together."
Following the speeches, guests were invited to network and discuss the positive work Loughborough does to support sanctuary seekers. Members of LUSARG shared other key achievements with colleagues, including awarding and providing direct support for sanctuary scholarship holders, and holding an awareness event for Cara (the Council for At-Risk Academics).
For more information about how the University supports refugees and asylum seekers, please contact LUSARG via email lusarg@mailbox.lboro.ac.uk, or visit the LUSARG website.