The University of Salford has been named a University of Sanctuary in recognition of its outstanding support for refugees and sanctuary seeking people.
The University of Sanctuary award is granted to universities who demonstrate a commitment to creating a culture of inclusivity for refugees and asylum-seekers. The title was awarded by City of Sanctuary UK, a nationally coordinated network of organisations and services, including councils, universities, theatres and libraries that welcome and support refugees and people seeking asylum.
Higher Education Institutions in the UK have a proud tradition of supporting refugees and people in the asylum system, with Salford being one of the first universities in the UK to offer Article 26, needs-based scholarships back in 2012. Since then, Salford have awarded over 50 scholarships and recently expanded the scheme to offer 10 scholarships per year.
The awarding panel were impressed by a number of initiatives taken by the University, including events organised to amplify the stories of survivors of war and persecution, critical research to better understand the lives and impact of sanctuary seekers, and ensuring additional support processes have been in place to help with sanctuary seekers’ employability.
Thanks to this compelling evidence, along with lots of other great work done across the University, they now join universities such as Leeds, Liverpool, and Queen’s College, Belfast in attaining a 2025 accreditation.
The University also worked closely in partnership with Salford City Council who were awarded City of Sanctuary status in 2023, and will continue to support Salford City Council in helping to foster a culture of welcome and inclusion across the city.
Dr Pradeep Passi, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Social Justice and Equity at the University of Salford, said:
“We are absolutely delighted to be awarded University of Sanctuary status. Gaining this accreditation aligns with our purpose of building social justice and a fairer world for all through our education and research provision, and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to creating a welcoming culture of inclusivity and awareness for all students including eligible refugees and asylum seekers, both on campus and within the community. I would like to thank members of the steering group for their commitment and efforts, along with everyone across the University who has been involved in the wider work that has been ongoing for some time”
The University has a long history of empowering students to achieve their academic and career ambitions, regardless of their background, and is ranked fifth best in England in the latest Social Mobility Index (Higher Education Policy Institute 2024).
To understand the impact that this type of work has on people’s lives, a student who received a Sanctuary Scholarship said:
“The Sanctuary Scholarship holds deep meaning for me because it opens doors to higher education for individuals who may otherwise be unable to afford it. It represents opportunity, resilience, and the power of community support. This scholarship isn’t just financial aid; it’s a pathway to empowerment and a brighter future.”
City of Sanctuary UK works with individuals, groups and organisations in every area and in every sector to encourage inclusivity, compassion and solidarity with refugees and people seeking sanctuary.