The Whitaker has been recognised for its commitment to welcoming refugees, asylum seekers and migrants after receiving the prestigious Gallery of Sanctuary award from City of Sanctuary UK.
Originally donated to the people of Rossendale in 1902 by Richard Whitaker, The Whitaker continues that ethos today as a free-to-enter charitable organisation committed to being a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone in the community.
The Gallery of Sanctuary award reflects The Whitaker’s ongoing dedication to learning how it can better support people seeking sanctuary, and to creating an environment where refugees, asylum seekers and migrants feel safe, represented and valued.
A Commitment to Inclusivity
Creative Director Gaynor Seville said:
“We are extremely grateful to be considered and selected for this award. The Whitaker has always been a strong advocate for supporting and caring for all of our communities, and we have been overwhelmed by the positive contribution refugees and asylum seekers have made to the museum through their volunteering work.
“Museums tell the important stories of our past to help us reflect and create better futures for everyone. Those forced to seek sanctuary are an important part of our current story, and it is important we record these stories accurately and with compassion. I am proud that our part in this story is one of welcoming and celebrating the brave and inspiring people represented through this award.”
The organisation is also proud that around 10% of its volunteers have lived experience of seeking sanctuary. Their perspectives play an important role in shaping the organisation and strengthening its commitment to listening, learning and ensuring people from all backgrounds can meaningfully contribute to programming and community activity.
Volunteer Spotlight: Asnake Wubu
One volunteer, Asnake Wubu, who previously worked in tourism and heritage in Ethiopia, said volunteering at The Whitaker has helped him connect with both local culture and the wider community.
Asnake studied social anthropology and cultural heritage conservation and worked as a tour guide in Ethiopia for 14 years, as well as a tourist information expert at Lalibela Airport for five years before seeking sanctuary in the UK.
They said:
“I chose to volunteer at The Whitaker because of my experience in heritage and culture, and I was inspired by the artefacts in the museum.
“Volunteering here has helped me learn more about British heritage and culture. I started working on the front desk and I am now training in collections and object handling, including monitoring temperature and humidity to help conserve collections for future generations.”
Speaking about the importance of welcoming people seeking sanctuary, Asnake added:
“People with sanctuary-seeking experience can offer new knowledge and ways of working with the local community. Volunteering helps people integrate, share experiences and give something back.
“I wish more people understood that refugees are human beings who have often come here because of war and difficult circumstances. The local community has welcomed me warmly, and volunteering allows me to express my thanks and contribute in return.”
They also encouraged others to volunteer:
“The Whitaker is a place where you can gain experience, learn from others and share your own knowledge. It is an opportunity to give back while learning about heritage, history and art.”
Community Collaboration and Refugee Week Event
The Whitaker’s work with local partners, including the Rossendale Refugee Support Group and PEP Enterprise, has helped strengthen connections across the borough and create opportunities for people seeking sanctuary to participate in creative, cultural and community life.
To celebrate receiving the Gallery of Sanctuary award, The Whitaker is working alongside the Rossendale Refugee Support Group to host a special evening of film and reflection during Refugee Week 2026 (15–21 June).
- When: Thursday 18th June, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Where: The Old Stables, The Whitaker Museum & Art Gallery.
The event will open with a short film by Benyamin Hemmanti, showcasing his work photographing local refugees and asylum seekers. The project focuses on the Refugee Week theme of Courage and features several of The Whitaker’s own volunteers.
Following the short film, there will be a special screening of the powerful feature fiction film, Dreamers (2025), directed by Joy Gharoro-Akpojotor (Running time: 1h 18m; Rated 15).
Dreamers Synopsis: > As her freedom is threatened, Isio, a Nigerian migrant newly placed in a UK immigration removal centre, searches for the strength to resist the system. Within confinement, she finds connection with another woman, and together they begin to imagine a future beyond the fences. Dreamers is a moving story of resilience, solidarity, and love in the face of institutional control, exploring profound themes of the UK asylum system, detention, friendship, and resistance.
The feature will be screened with English subtitles available. Visitors are encouraged to watch the official trailer on YouTube and visit The Whitaker’s website and social media channels for ticketing information, further details, and updates in the coming weeks.
Book tickets for Dreamers (2025) here
About City of Sanctuary UK
The Gallery of Sanctuary title was awarded by City of Sanctuary UK, a nationally coordinated network of organisations and services including councils, universities, theatres and libraries that welcome and support refugees and people seeking asylum.
City of Sanctuary UK works with individuals, groups and organisations across every sector and region to encourage inclusivity, compassion and solidarity with refugees and people seeking sanctuary.
Read more about City of Sanctuary UK here
Volunteer Asnake Wubu with our Front of House & Volunteers Coordinator Kayley Davies.
Contact: Kayley Davies / kayley@thewhitaker.org
