This learning opportunity on Sanctuary Awards was on Tuesday January 19th at 11 – 12.30 and attended by 39 people from across the network.   85% of those who evaluated the session afterwards told us it was both useful and enjoyable. “It was very informative and engaging. Well presented.”

• Provide the background and an overview of CoS UK award process.
• Explain the role of awards as a valuable strategic tool for our Theory of Change.
• Describe the Learn, Embed & Share processes.
• Explain the background to the Award Minimum Criteria (and consultation with professional practitioners)
• Build confidence and understanding of the work of the appraisal panel.

The session generated a great deal of lively discussion. This included finding a balance between keeping the award consistent across the UK with minimum criteria robust enough to maintain credibility and the avoidance of bureaucratic procedures sliding into a tick box exercise.  The award celebrates the learning and embedding of good practice and is the beginning of an ongoing conversation and continuous process of engagement between the recognised organisation and the local CoS group and wider network through the relevant stream.

The need for organisations to also embed anti-racism training as part of the award was highlighted by Alice Mpofu-Coles, a Reading CoS trustee. “Racial equity is as important as sanctuary equity. Organisations might want to have sanctuary awards, give scholarships, etc., but equally might lack racial equity in their institutions.”

Other issues raised were about capacity and practicalities and it was decided to organise a  follow up open session to share practice, experiences and ask further questions.

Here are the Sanctuary Award Process Slides from the presentation.