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
At the event, the Vice-Chancellor said: “We commit to continuing our sanctuary scholarships, building on our community partnerships, and maintaining our support for academics and students at risk. We will ensure that Loughborough remains a place where talent can flourish, regardless of the circumstances that brought someone to our doors.
“Today, we don't just celebrate an award. We celebrate our 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.