The University of Bath has been recognised as a University of Sanctuary in recognition of its students and staff efforts to welcome people seeking sanctuary into their community and promote a culture of inclusion and welcome.

Activities run by the University include wellbeing support, volunteering, research and teaching, and sanctuary scholarships.

The University of Bath joins a growing list of higher education institutions known as ‘Universities of Sanctuary’. The announcement of Bath’s award comes on World Access to Higher Education Day [Tuesday 17 November] – a day intended to raise global awareness around inequities in access and success within higher education.

Professor Peter Lambert, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Learning & Teaching) who has led this work explained: “We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded ‘University of Sanctuary’ by City of Sanctuary. This is a tremendous achievement and accolade for the University and is the result

of the initiatives and actions that have come together over recent years in response to the refugee crisis….

“This award is a fantastic example of what we can achieve by people working together to achieve a collective ambition. My sincere thanks to everyone who played such an important role in our support for refugees and asylum seekers and our application to become a University of Sanctuary.”

Nikki Walters, South & South West Regional Coordinator for City of Sanctuary added: “Congratulations to the University of Bath on being awarded as a University of Sanctuary. It is a fantastic achievement and the appraisal panel was thoroughly impressed with the great work taking place at the university.”

More information about some of the work at the University supporting people seeking sanctuary can be accessed here.