A new report from the Social Market Foundation highlights the role universities play in improving social mobility, and how this role can be enhanced through a place-based approach.

Responding to the report, Maddy Godin, Policy Adviser at the Russell Group, commented:

“It is encouraging to see this new report recognising the significant and wide-ranging impact universities have on social mobility – helping disadvantaged students transform their life chances and building up skilled workforces for regional economies.

"Our universities invest millions of pounds each year into widening participation activities and access is increasing for young people from under-represented groups. But we know there is much more that can be done to ensure the social mobility potential of higher education is accessible to everyone. That's why we have recently made fresh commitments to offering more support and strengthening collaborations.

“As the report highlights, partnership is key. Bringing together education providers, local government, business and third sector organisations will be crucial in setting a long-term strategy and delivering it effectively, to improve opportunity for people in every region of the UK."

Read more about how our universities are supporting opportunity and access to higher education in our latest briefing paper, Building Opportunity For All.