We stand united with our migrants, racialised, and Muslim communities who have been subjected to xenophobic, racist, and Islamophobic violence. These incidents reflect a disturbing trend that unfairly targets these groups and fuels division
A statement from the Elected Officer Team: Luke - Students’ Union President, Charlotte – VP Education, Joe – VP Welfare and Sophie – VP Activities.
At the University of Central Lancashire Students’ Union, we stand united with our migrants, racialised, and Muslim communities who have been subjected to xenophobic, racist, and Islamophobic violence. These incidents reflect a disturbing trend that unfairly targets these groups and fuels division. At UCLan SU, we reject the harmful narratives that blame immigration for societal issues like NHS waiting lists, job losses, and the cost-of-living crisis. These narratives not only misinform but also perpetuate inequality and hostility.
We want to assure our international and refugee students that UCLan is your home, and you are valued members of our community. We recognise the anxiety and fear many of you may feel during these challenging times. To support you, we are working directly and very closely with the University to address these issues and enhance our support systems.
We also condemn all violence that has occurred during these riots, including any acts directed towards police and emergency services personnel. At the University, many of our students are studying to be our police, paramedics, firefighters and other public serving roles of the future. We have reached out to Schools across the University to share our support with all affected. We stand firmly against any, and all, forms of violence.
We encourage everyone to reach out to and support your friends and classmates who are affected by these issues.
The National Union of Students (NUS) Statement:
“At NUS, we stand in solidarity with the migrants, racialised and Muslim communities that have faced xenophobic, racist, and Islamophobic violence in the last week. The distressing events unfolding now are not isolated incidents but the result of a growing and dangerous narrative that has served to normalise racist and anti-migrant sentiments.
A narrative that repeatedly blames immigration for NHS waiting lists, for job losses, and for the cost-of-living crisis. We have seen this narrative seep into our sector through the vilification of international and refugee students. This is a narrative that serves to divide the most disadvantaged persons in our society and sustain inequality.
The UK must be a sanctuary where migrants can live safely, free from fear, and thrive through their hard work and contributions to society. Migrants, racialised and Muslim students must always be welcomed into the student movement. We understand students will be fearful right now for themselves, friends and family. We send our solidarity, love and support to every one of you, and especially all racialised, Muslim, and international students.
In these challenging times, we urge all student leaders and allies to be vigilant. Students’ unions take on a central role in elevating the voices of marginalised students and organising for instrumental systemic change. Through and with NUS students have a proud history of winning that change.
We urge everyone to reach out to your friends and colleagues who are Muslim or from racialised backgrounds. Actively challenge and condemn all forms of racism or Islamophobia. Our solidarity is not just a gesture; it is a crucial stand against hate and injustice.”
Read on for key information and options for seeking support (both University-led and external).
Support if you are concerned about travelling to exams due to the riots
All Mitigating Circumstance (MC) applications that are due to the current rioting and civil unrest will be approved for the current Exam period (August 5 to August 16 2024).
It is important to understand that you may not be able to undertake the delayed assessment until January 2025 and this could impact on your ability to progress on your course as anticipated or graduate on your original timeline.
Please see the article on the Student Hub with information how to submit a Mitigating Circumstance (MC) application here. (internal link)
Accessing Support
Here is a reminder of the University mental health and wellbeing support available to all students:
Reporting Hate Crimes & Hate Incidents
If you experience or witness any hate crime or incident, please consider reporting so you can access support.
We can support you in making a report to the police or an anonymous report - it is completely your choice. Anything you tell us will remain strictly confidential.
You can report by completing the online reporting form or emailing us at reporthatecrime@uclan.ac.uk any time for support or to make a report.
External Support Services
If you want to report incidents externally, without going through the University, visit one of the following links: