The Awards recognise the outstanding contributions of staff within Professional Services. This year saw 273 nominations which is a testament to the many people who go above and beyond their day-to-day role – and the appreciation of their colleagues who put them forward.

Particular recognition goes to the Law School’s Ben Hudson, Katie Bales and Natasha Carver (Sociology), for their tireless work with the Migration Research Group. Their expert advice and commitment in the pursuit of a fair, viable, and effective scheme, played a key role in the introduction of the Sanctuary Scholarship Scheme which was launched in June 2016.  

The scheme aims to break down the barriers and enhance the opportunities there are for people from asylum seeking and refugee communities to accessing higher education and employment.

One such individual is Lawran Abdo, a student from Western Kurdistan.

“I arrived to the UK two years ago. I am in Bristol because I feel it is the most appropriate place for rebuilding a new life and contributing to such a wide range of national and international communities present here. I am now studying Biomedical Science and Chemistry for a future career in Pharmacology. It is a pleasure for me to be at the University of Bristol on such a rewarding scholarship.”

Head of School, Professor Joanne Conaghan, commented:

“This is a remarkable achievement for the Migration Research Group and shows how we are able to use our expertise to affect positive change at the University and beyond. Most importantly, our efforts to get the Scheme up and running will mean that the real beneficiaries - the young men and women receiving the Scholarships - will have the scheme available into the future.”

The Scheme offers support towards the cost of full or part-time undergraduate and master's degrees, and PhDs.