The University of Gloucestershire launched a new research project on 25 February 2026 to help people understand the experiences of refugees in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. This project, known as the Voices for Rights and Refuge Research Network, aims to improve local support services through new studies and community events.
The network is led by Susie Olczak, a lecturer in fine art, and Dr Kristina Ilieva, an expert in criminology. Their work focuses on how people who are forced to leave their homes are seen by others and how they experience moving to new areas.
The university has ongoing partnerships with local charities such as Gloucestershire Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (GARAS) and Cheltenham Welcomes Refugees. This new initiative will allow researchers and students to work with these groups to improve how the community supports those seeking sanctuary.
This launch is part of University Refugee Week 2026, which begins on 2 March 2026. A formal event to celebrate the new project is taking place on 6 March 2026 to highlight how universities can support people in need.
Susie Olczak has previously studied migration routes in places like Panama and Chile. The research network will now use this expertise to look at how people in the local area can better understand and welcome those who have moved to the county from abroad.
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