Humanitarian Response Fund
Supporting talented students who have been displaced enables them to pursue their studies and contribute to society.
The Rowan Williams Cambridge Studentship, spearheaded and provided by the Cambridge Trust, currently provides full funding for students from displaced backgrounds, both those from overseas and those in the UK. Alongside this direct financial support for fees and living costs, it is of the utmost importance to create an environment in which displaced students can thrive. It is not enough simply to bring displaced students to Cambridge.
Together, we can ensure that students have the resources and support to succeed academically and personally.
We are highly aware that students from conflict areas can suddenly face unexpected expenses, often with little notice. Changes to the humanitarian crises or conflicts in their home countries can affect their spending power in the UK, resulting in a need for financial assistance. Supporting funds for an an IELTS English language test, a condition of entry to study here, would enable a student to take up their place at the University. Students who have faced especially harrowing circumstances would benefit from some short-term trauma counselling to help them process their experiences so that they can fully focus on their studies. Students with family emergencies back in their home country may need assistance to afford a flight.
“The Humanitarian Response Fund grant arrived during one of the most challenging periods of my life. When basic necessities felt out of reach and the weight of uncertainty was overwhelming, this support provided not just financial relief, but a reminder that I wasn't alone. It helped me meet essential needs and gave me a sense of stability and hope when things felt uncertain. I am truly grateful for this assistance."
To respond to these issues, we have set up a Humanitarian Response Fund, with use of some short-term University funds, so that students can access funding when these pressing issues arise. Applications are considered by dedicated staff on a rolling, case-by-case basis to ensure that grants are deployed as quickly and fairly as possible. Applying for funds is not an onerous task, and decisions are made quickly. Students are informed as soon as a decision about their application is made, and, if successful, they are transferred funds immediately.
Although grants are small compared to a full scholarship award, the impact can be significant.
Enabling a student to come to Cambridge through a scholarship overcomes the huge initial financial hurdle, but subsequent situations can arise that risk the student being unable to complete their studies. As such, these grants can have a disproportionately large impact, as they provide for a student in a time of crisis or need, getting them back on track to focus on their studies and achieve their potential.
To continue the impact of this fund, a gift of any size would be gratefully received.
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