In recognition of the decades of contribution he has made to community engagement and social justice, North West England District Justice-Seeking Advocate Peter Lumsden has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Lancashire. The degree celebrates his transformative regional impact as a champion of civic engagement, interfaith dialogue, and social justice. Peter is one of four Justice-Seeking Advocates within the District, representing the Lancashire Mission Area, and has held several senior roles across Lancashire, including:
- Chair of the Preston Faith Forum
- Chair of the Preston chapter of Citizens UK
- Treasurer of the Lancashire Forum of Faiths
- Trustee of Building Bridges Burnley
A Dual Recognition
Adding to his recognition, Peter was also appointed this summer as one of the University’s first Community Fellows. Drawn from the region’s voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector, the Fellows aim to strengthen collaboration and provide a stronger voice for communities across the region.
Reflecting on receiving these achievements, Peter said “it is very gratifying to receive these two awards from the institution where I worked for many years – and particularly that the recognition is for work not directly connected to the academic disciplines with which I was engaged whilst at the University.”
“A flourishing civil society is dependent on organisations that have stability, sustainability and shared purpose, like Lancashire University, and like faith groups. We are key anchor points in society, and I suggest that, to create positive change, we need to be bolder in shifting our gaze outwards, exerting our influence, and offering a sense of meaning and purpose.”
The North West England District extend their warmest congratulations and thanks to Peter for his ongoing commitment to community engagement and social justice across Lancashire.