Sanctuary Cafés, Refugee Week and other events
We regularly hold community engagement, sporting and arts activities to raise awareness about people’s lived experiences of sanctuary seeking, fundraise for local refugee organisations, and welcome sanctuary seekers on campus.
30 May - 12 June 2026
On campus and in the Reading area
Events range from informal, community-building activities, to creative workshops, exhibitions, and discussions, including shared experiences beyond the campus. Together, they create spaces to listen generously, build connections across differences, and explore courage as something practised collectively.
Find out more and get involved in our Refugee Week activities
Photos from the Portraits of Resilience / Sanctuary exhibition, delivered in partnership with Refugee Support Group and supported as part of the University's commitment as a University of Sanctuary.
In autumn 2026, the University of Reading partnered with Refugee Support Group to host Portraits of Resilience / Sanctuary, a photography exhibition exploring journeys of sanctuary, courage and belonging. Through portraits and personal stories, the exhibition celebrated the talents, experiences and contributions of people seeking sanctuary, inviting staff, students and visitors to engage with the individuals behind the labels and learn more about the communities that enrich our society.
The exhibition was displayed in the University Library, bringing stories of sanctuary into a shared public space and encouraging reflection, learning and conversation across the University community.
Read more about the University of Reading’s City of Sanctuary activities.
