Sanctuary Awards celebrate the organisations who go above and beyond to support and welcome people seeking sanctuary. Through this formal process of recognising and rewarding good practice and progress, other organisations are then encouraged to be more informed and inclusive.
Schools of Sanctuary
If you seek to make your school a place of welcome and safety for those seeking sanctuary, you could be well on the way to acquiring the Schools of Sanctuary award. The award is a way of demonstrating your commitment to educating all children in your school about the human right to sanctuary.
You will build empathy and intercultural awareness for all so even if you do not have children actively seeking sanctuary in school, you can still gain the award.
If you would like to know more about Schools of Sanctuary, you can find their website here.
Schools of Sanctuary aims to:
- Promote positive attitudes within schools and their communities around people seeking sanctuary
- Support schools to take positive steps and to be proud of being places of safety and inclusion for all
- Recognise and celebrate schools that are committed to welcoming and supporting people seeking sanctuary
Libraries of Sanctuary
In 2025 Barnsley Libraries successfully earned their Library of Sanctuary Award, which recognises libraries that go above and beyond to welcome people seeking safety. What they offer:
- Free library membership – anyone can join, even without permanent proof of address (vital for people in temporary accomodation or awaiting ID card)
- Books in many languages – Spanish, Ukrainian, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, Kurdish, plus dual-language children’s books
- Free technology access – computers, WiFi, printing, and photocopying in all 15 branches
- Digital resources – free eBooks, audiobooks, and international newspapers through apps
- Free activities and events – groups for children, families, and adults
- Volunteering opportunities – welcoming people seeking sanctuary to gain skills and meet others
Why it matters: Libraries provide essential services that help people settling in Barnsley – from learning English and accessing information to building community connections. They’re truly “safe spaces” where anyone can access help, resources, and support without fear. Find out more here
Museums of Sanctuary
In 2025 Barnsley Museums were recognised with the Museum of Sanctuary award, making them one of very few museums in the UK to hold this accolade. What they do:
- Create safe, welcoming spaces for everyone in the community
- Offer a wide variety of services, activities and events throughout the year
- Host exhibitions showcasing local community work, including school art competitions around themes like ‘Welcome’ during Refugee Week
- Share stories of life in Barnsley and help visitors discover the borough’s heritage