As part of our commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all, we’re pleased to announce that the University is preparing an application to become a University of Sanctuary.

The University of Sanctuary initiative celebrates institutions committed to creating a culture of inclusivity, safety, and support for asylum seekers and refugees.

Our application demonstrates our commitment through various community activities, teaching, research, policies and strategies and has been a collaborative effort, with input from key staff across the institution, including both academic and professional support teams.

The final submission will be made to the University of Sanctuary by end of January 2025, and if successful, we will undertake a site visit from University of Sanctuary representatives in spring 2025, with a decision thereafter.

This application marks a significant step in the University’s journey to becoming a University of Sanctuary and reflects staff commitment to supporting asylum seekers and refugees within the institution and the broader community.

Ways to get involved

Refugee Week: Each year staff and students across the University celebrate Refugee Week and World Refugee Day; we will look to host a number of events again in 2025 – previous events have included reflections in the Peace Garden, fundraising football matches, film nights and hosting theatre performances.

Refugee Week is a UK-wide festival celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Founded in 1998 and held every year around World Refugee Day on the 20 June, Refugee Week is also a growing global movement.

We are asking our university community to hold an event in support of the movement and to support the University’s work in becoming a University of Sanctuary.  

Simple Acts are everyday actions we can all do to stand with refugees and make new connections in our communities. Small steps to create big change!

Please let us know (studentexperience@chester.ac.uk)  what activities you have organised, and ways in which you have been involved (however small!), by sending in details and photos that we can share and celebrate on our webpage!

Student Action for Refugees (STAR Group)

The STAR group has recently been set up through Chester Students’ Union, and is key to the University’s work in becoming a University of Sanctuary.

STAR is the national network of students whose aim is to build a more understanding and just society where refugees are welcomed and can thrive in the UK. Student groups based in universities are supported by a central team of experts, who work together at a number of levels to bring about lasting change.

Group members:

• Volunteer locally working directly with refugees, building understanding and connections
• Campaign nationally for policy change and equal access to higher education for refugees
• Learn about refugee protection and the asylum journey in the UK with experts and peers

If you are interested please click here for more information and details of how to get involved.