University’s lecture to shine light on history of refugees in Suffolk

The University of Suffolk’s first Open Lecture of 2026 is set to take place next month with a focus on the story of refugees coming to the county across the centuries.

The lecture: “A History of Refugees in Suffolk”, will be delivered by Martin Simmonds, Fundraising and Communications Manager at Suffolk Refugee Support, following an introduction by Sir Nick Young, Patron of Suffolk Refugee Support and former CEO of the British Red Cross and Macmillan Cancer Support.

Taking place on Thursday 12 February and hosted in the University of Suffolk’s Waterfront Building, the lecture will shine a light on the lasting contribution refugees have made to the county and the historical context for Suffolk Refugee Support’s work today.

Martin Simmonds, from Suffolk Refugee Support, said: “For centuries, Suffolk has been a place of refuge for people fleeing war and persecution.

“Their stories are woven into the fabric of the county – from landmark buildings and enduring businesses to our football clubs and public services.

“While some, including long-forgotten small boat arrivals, have faded from public memory, echoes of their presence here remain.

“This talk explores Suffolk’s refugee history, offering fresh historical insight into modern debates and highlighting the lasting economic and cultural contributions refugees have made to the county.”

Tickets for the lecture, which runs from 5.30-8.00pm, are free, but booking is required. Guests attending are invited for refreshments after the event.

Dr Amanda Hodgkinson, Director of the Suffolk Centre for Culture and Heritage at the University of Suffolk, said: “Our Open Lecture Series is an important way of engaging with our local community and highlighting important issues.

“We look forward to welcoming Suffolk Refugee Support to the University to share their knowledge on this important topic.”

The next talk in the Open Lecture series will be Let the Light Pour In with Lemn Sissay: An evening of poetry and conversation on 23 March.

The bestselling poet will celebrate the publication of his latest collection.

On 23 April, The Cartographic Fool will be delivered by Mike Sauter, Associate Professor of History at the University of Suffolk, where he will discuss the release of his new book.

To book an Open Lecture, visit Events — Open Lectures | University of Suffolk