Sheffield Hallam University has been re-accredited as a University of Sanctuary for its work supporting refugees.
It first achieved the accreditation from the City of Sanctuary charity in 2021, and has since awarded fifteen scholarships to students with refugee background. These include a waiver for fees and a £4,000 study grant.
The university also recruited two fellows on visiting scholarships from Ukraine and Afghanistan through the Council for At Risk Academics in 2023, and has reunited 1,750 people with their families through its Refugee Rights Hub since 2018.
Vice-chancellor Professor Liz Mossop said she was “delighted” by the reaccreditation.
She added: “In a challenging global context, it’s more important than ever for universities to play their part in supporting those displaced from their homes to rebuild their lives. Sheffield Hallam is one of the UK’s leading civic universities and re-accreditation demonstrates the positive impact we have on our region.”
It comes at the start of 2025 Refugee Week which will see nationwide events celebrate the contributions of refugees.
University of Sanctuary status is held by 42 UK universities, including the University of Sheffield – which received it in 2023.
Maryam Taher, Universities of Sanctuary Manager, said: “We’re very pleased to see Sheffield Hallam’s University of Sanctuary status renewed. This re-accreditation is a testament to the university’s sustained commitment to creating a truly welcoming environment for people seeking sanctuary.
“Through its scholarships, student leadership, and strong local partnerships, Sheffield Hallam continues to demonstrate what it means to embed sanctuary values into university life. Its impact reaches beyond the campus, contributing meaningfully to making Sheffield a more inclusive and supportive city. We’re proud to have them as a leading voice in the Universities of Sanctuary network and look forward to what comes next.”
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