STAR Society aims to create a more welcoming, inclusive and supportive environment for refugees at Exeter University and the broader local area, supporting the goals of STAR National.

One of our main partnerships is with St. Sidwell's Community Centre, where members volunteer in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Classes and Homework Club (supporting children in their learning) groups, aiming to foster inclusion in the community and have positive, tangible impact on the lives of refugees in our local area.

Last year we ran a successful clothing drive initiative in partnership with Refugee Aid from Taunton (RAFT), dropping off over 8 bags of donated clothing that was then distributed by RAFT to refugees both in the local area and nationwide. We hope to run similar initiatives in 2025/26 and would love for you to be a part of these!

All of these projects contributed to us winning the Guild's Community Award for academic year 2024/25. This is an achievement we are very proud of, as we plan to continue and greaten this important impact for academic year 2025/26 - but we need your help!

Aims and Objectives:

• To host guest speaking events and interactive debates amongst leading experts in the field, refugees, students and charities.
• To hold awareness campaigns on and outside of campus promoting positive mindsets towards refugees and advancing refugee rights.
• To develop a stronger community sentiment amongst members by organising a greater number of socials including charity gigs, film screenings and pub quizzes.
• To raise funds and donations for local charities like Refugee Support Devon, Refugee Aid from Taunton, and inform students about the various volunteering opportunities such organisations have to offer.
• To cooperate with other Exeter University societies in the hope of hosting joint events and socials in aid of the refugee cause.

STAR National is the nationwide network of over 30 university student groups working to improve the lives of refugees in the UK by focusing on awareness and action:

• Promoting positive images of refugees and offering learning opportunities for students to deepen their understanding of refugee issues.
• Community building, aiming to integrate refugees into the university community and foster a sense of belonging.
• Volunteering for local refugee projects and working directly with refugees. 
• Fundraising for local, national and international charities.
• Raise awareness of the reality of refugee experiences and campaign for policy changes.

Whether you’re interested in lending a hand at a few events and bake sale fundraisers, volunteering in ESOL Classes and Homework Club, contributing to a clothing drive initiative, or even just attending some of our regular socials, every member counts and makes a significant difference. Not only will you contribute to positive change, you will see the results of your effort and meet people from all over the world, learn their stories and have lots of fun in the process.

Please follow our Instagram account @exeter_star to stay updated through the year.

For more info, check out www.star-network.org.uk