I have been working as Social Justice Project Co-ordinator in the Office for Institutional Equity at Leeds Trinity University for just over a year now. It’s a very fulfilling role that sees me working across the region with inspirational people from all backgrounds wanting to make a better society for all.   

Just one of my responsibilities is to represent the University at the Leeds City of Sanctuary Steering Committee. Leeds Trinity is an official supporter of the Leeds City of Sanctuary, which is part of a national movement to build a culture of welcome for people seeking sanctuary in the UK. Sitting on the committee offers an opportunity for me to illustrate Leeds Trinity’s values and culture as we continue our journey towards becoming a University of Sanctuary. I also liaise with other higher education establishments across the city and region to try and find ways to prepare us in our journey and look for ways to work as a collective.  

I am proud to be part of the Steering Committee. To be involved on a city-wide level to make Leeds a welcoming environment in the current climate is something I feel very strongly about. Therefore, I was and remain absolutely thrilled that as a team, we won the Diversity Project of the Year Award at the Leeds Compassionate City Awards 2023, held on Friday 7 December. 

To be recognised at the Leeds Compassionate City Awards is a huge achievement. In Leeds, we extend the welcome of our city to people who come here seeking safety and refugee. Those involved with the Leeds City of Sanctuary are committed to making our city a haven for anyone who needs its protection. 

We have many people who fled their homes and countries, housed in a hotel locally, not that far from our campus, who are not allowed to work and are living in a very challenging environment with little to no resources. I believe it is our responsibility as part of the community to find ways to support them and others seeking a welcoming, safe and engaging environment.   

I am looking forward to continuing the good work throughout 2024 and hope to encourage others from the community as well as from Leeds Trinity to get involved in making Leeds more accessible for asylum seekers and refugees.   

I welcome anyone who would be interested in joining the Leeds Trinity University of Sanctuary Steering Committee. You can contact me directly for more information at s.wilcock@leedstrinity.ac.uk. 

Susan Wilcock is the Social Justice Project Co-ordinator in the Office for Institutional Equity at Leeds Trinity University.