Refugees & Asylum Seekers

University Centre Leeds is committed to becoming a safe and welcoming place for all, especially those seeking sanctuary. We want all students, staff and the wider community to understand what it means to be seeking sanctuary. 

We want to help refugees and asylum seekers by addressing barriers including overcoming financial, emotional and cultural hurdles, and supporting them to achieve their potential. Our brand values mean that we endeavour to continue supporting and reducing barriers, and meet the needs of each and every student. We believe every student has the right to learn and excel and we value students from all walks of life. 

Is this support for you?

A refugee is someone who has been forced to leave their country in order to escape war, persecution, or natural disaster. A refugee has been given permission to stay in the UK, and has been granted official ‘refugee’ status. 

An asylum seeker is someone who has applied for refugee status and is waiting to find out if it has been granted.

University of Sanctuary

The University of Sanctuary is a national network of university staff, lecturers, academics and students. The aim is to make Higher Education institutions places of safety, solidarity and empower people seeking sanctuary. 

Your Story 

Would you be interested in sharing your story? We would like to hear from refugees and asylum seekers who are a part of University Centre Leeds about the journey and experiences they have had with us.

We want to make sure everyone feels welcome and included. As part of this, we are working towards being recognised by City of Sanctuary UK as a University of Sanctuary. Our students’ views play a big part in this.

If you would be happy to share your story, please fill this form in.

Support at UC Leeds