The York Sanctuary Fund supports students and academics displaced by conflict where it is needed the most, providing scholarships to asylum seeking students and supporting human rights defenders.

Today, only 6% of refugees have access to higher education compared to 40% of people globally. This is not a reflection of their talent or passion, but rather the lack of opportunities and funds available to them. Sanctuary and safety should not come at the expense of future prospects, but currently it does.

You can help to change this. The need to help students and academics displaced by conflict has never been greater, but together, with your support, we can make a difference. 

One person who has been supported through the York Sanctuary Fund is Fawzia, a third year PhD student from Afghanistan. Fawzia originally started her studies in York just as the Taliban took power, and has been unable to return home. 

The stipend initially provided when Fawzia began her PhD was far from enough to cover her basic needs, and that is where the York Sanctuary Fund was able to respond. With the additional scholarship, Fawzia has been able to focus on her studies without the constant worry of how she will pay for basic necessities such as rent and groceries. With this financial burden lifted, Fawzia now envisions pursuing further research, or a career that directly contributes to the development of her home country, Afghanistan. This would not have been possible without the support of people like you.

“By investing in my education, you’re not just supporting an individual; you’re contributing to the empowerment of women, who in turn can transform entire families and communities. Educated women have the potential to drive significant change and uplift societies, and your support is instrumental in making this possible.

Thank you so much for your belief in me and for providing me with the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Your support is a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change, and I am profoundly grateful for it.”

Fawzia, York Sanctuary Fund Recipient 

The York Sanctuary Fund not only opens doors to academic and professional opportunities, but has also helped provide recipients with a sense of security and belonging in a new country. It can turn what is a challenging and uncertain journey into one of hope, purpose, and possibility.

The fund is designed to respond to the unpredictable nature of global issues, allowing York to continue to provide realistic packages of support to those seeking sanctuary, taking into consideration the multiple challenges they face.

Please consider supporting York to continue to be a place of sanctuary for those who need it by making a gift to the York Sanctuary Fund this Giving Day. 

Thank you.