Working together with Durham University
We are excited to be working with Durham University on a number of research projects helping us to understand more about the experiences people have had as an asylum seeker and refugee in Stockton-on-Tees.
![](https://refugeefutures.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Untitled-design-2023-11-07T205840.563-1024x683.png)
Working together with Durham University
![](https://refugeefutures.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Untitled-design-2023-11-07T205840.563-1024x683.png)
Working together
We are working in partnership with Durham University and refugees and people seeking asylum in Stockton-on-Tees to:
- learn about people’s experience of coming to Stockton-on-Tees as an asylum seeker, settling in Stockton-on-Tees and what integration means for them.
- develop research skills within Stockton’s community of refugees and people seeking asylum.
Share findings from the research with:
- Stockton’s refugee and asylum-seeking community.
- the wider community including charities, service providers and local people.
- Stockton Borough Council and other local, regional and national policy-makers.
![](https://refugeefutures.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Untitled-design-2023-11-07T210258.251-1024x683.png)
![](https://refugeefutures.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Untitled-design-2023-11-07T210258.251-1024x683.png)
Current research project
Our current research project aims to better understand how people choose to build a life and make a home in Stockton-on-Tees after getting leave to remain. The project will also explore the barriers people face and the opportunities they have found.
Dr Lauren Martin of Durham University’s Geography Department is leading the research team. With support from Refugee Futures, Dr Martin has recruited five researchers with experience of going through the asylum system and who have settled in Stockton-on-Tees.
The research team has interviewed over 75 refugees who have settled in Stockton-on-Tees, as well as some refugees who chose to leave and go to other places.
Interim findings will be shared with people and organisations in Stockton-on-Tees summer 2024.
A second phase of the research will take place in late 2024 following analysis and feedback on the initial interim findings.