Here at Newcastle University, we have a long-standing commitment to social justice.
Three years ago, we became a supporter of Newcastle becoming a City of Sanctuary, and ever since, we’ve been working towards becoming a University of Sanctuary. We are proud to say that we have recently put in our University of Sanctuary application.
Our Deputy Vice Chancellor and Provost, Professor Julie Sanders has been leading the University’s work on this agenda which has involved colleagues and students from all parts of the organisation. She has been telling us a little bit more about how our work to become a University of Sanctuary is helping to bring to life our commitment to creating and fostering more equitable societies.
What is a City of Sanctuary?
Cities of Sanctuary work as a welcoming place for people escaping violence and persecution. The movement treats all asylum seekers and refugees with dignity and respect, offering a safe space, as well as promoting understanding and enabling voices to be heard.
.jpg?width=1024&name=Newcastle_University_Campus%20(5).jpg)
Newcastle is a recognised City of Sanctuary, meaning that refugees can receive support and guidance, on issues such as receiving health care, and gaining Settled status.
What is a University of Sanctuary?
Like a City of Sanctuary, Universities of Sanctuary have a long-standing commitment to offering educational, research and engagement opportunities to people fleeing violence and persecution.
How does Newcastle University support refugees and asylum seekers?
As a University we want to support access to higher education for refugees and asylum- seekers from sanctuary backgrounds and also to recognise and support those working in our academic and professional teams who have lived experience in this context. We want to foster a culture of welcome and inclusion for this group of colleagues and students both within and beyond our campus.
So, to support this ambition, we have applied for University of Sanctuary status.
Our teaching activity includes modules engaged with issues around the experience of seeking sanctuary across a range of subject areas. Many of these modules include direct involvement of those from sanctuary backgrounds so you can listen and learn first-hand.
We have schemes in place to support refugees and asylum seekers including reduced fees for eligible students and the NU Sanctuary Scholarship Scheme. The Scholarship Scheme saw its first three successful applicants start in September 2020.
It would be impossible to talk about refugee seekers and our sanctuary work without including reference to the amazing work of the North East Solidarity and Teaching (N.E.S. T.) , an award winning student-led project that works with refugees and asylum seekers in the community. The team of over 450 volunteers provide English classes, teaching, sports, creative arts and trips to the local area to support integration into the community.
We hope to hear back about our University of Sanctuary application later this year, however we are already so proud of the inspiring work being undertaken across the University to support those from sanctuary backgrounds.
Muzoon’s Story
UNICEF goodwill ambassador for refugee children and International Politics student Muzoon came to Newcastle from Syria via a refugee camp in Jordan in 2015.
Forced to flee her homeland, Muzoon is now helping others around the world. Here she shares her story.
