Read: Connecting minds and opportunity

Former Secretary of State for Education Rt. Hon Justine Greening celebrates leading members of the Purpose Coalition Sodexo and Northumbria University

In a recent visit former Secretary of State for Education and Chair of the Purpose Coalition, Rt. Hon Justine Greening was hosted by Sodexo UK&I Chief Executive Officer, Sean Haley, at Northumbria University - a visit highlighting the partnership of two leading members of the Purpose Coalition from the private and education sector. 

The Purpose Coalition is made up of some Britain’s biggest names including Leonardo, UK Power Networks, bp, the Co-op Group, Sodexo, Pennon Group, Channel 4, The Adecco Group, Alten, the BBC, NHS Trusts, UK councils and UK universities amongst others.

Our cross party work unites forward-thinking leaders, members of Parliament, and business and public sector leaders in the UK to exchange best practices and create solutions that empower organisations to positively impact their customers, colleagues, and communities, thereby fostering greater opportunities and boosting social mobility.

The start of the new term at university is an exhilarating yet nerve-wracking experience for students embarking on their higher education journey. Freshers' week, with its whirlwind of events and activities, marks the initiation into this new phase of life. It's a time when students, often away from home for the first time, are filled with excitement and apprehension, eager to make new friends and find their place in the academic community. 

But amidst the buzz and enthusiasm, there's a palpable challenge, particularly for those from less privileged backgrounds. Universities play a vital role in supporting social mobility by providing opportunities for students of diverse backgrounds to access higher education. They offer scholarships, financial aid, and support services to ensure that the dream of a university education is attainable for everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status. This commitment to inclusivity not only enriches the academic experience but also paves the way for a more equitable society, where talent and potential are nurtured regardless of background.

In this transformative journey, the significance of student accommodation and the nurturing environment cannot be overstated. It's within these halls and residences that students find a sense of belonging, forming lasting friendships and receiving crucial support during their transition into university life. Accessible and affordable housing options, along with a welcoming campus atmosphere, ensure that students can fully focus on their studies and personal growth. These elements create a conducive environment for students to thrive and build a brighter future for themselves and society as a whole.

Sodexo, manages the university's student accommodation facilities on-site and plays a pivotal role in improving students' welfare, catering to their requirements, ensuring their safety and offering valuable life advice both within and outside the university campus - values shared between Sodexo and the university, 

Through harnessing its expertise, resources, and skills Sodexo is perfectly primed to assist Northumbria University in enhancing the quality of life for their students, colleagues and the wider community. Whether your priority is health and wellbeing, fostering a positive social impact, or improving operational efficiency, Sodexo takes great pride in supporting students, colleagues and the community in achieving these goals.

While academic accomplishments hold great significance, the basis for a student's successful integration into university life in these crucial early moments are actively shaped by Sodexo’s Student Living team who maintain an environment in which the good health and well-being of students, encompassing both physical and mental health, plays a pivotal role in their capacity to excel. 

As well as hearing how Northumbria University, renowned for its commitment to excellence in education and community engagement is supported through its relationship with Sodexo, the visit also highlighted Sodexo’s support and encouragement for entrepreneurship through the university’s Innovation Northumbria: Incubator providing free to access workspace for students and graduates to turn ideas into flourishing businesses. 

Joined by Northumbria Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive, Professor Andy Long and young entrepreneurs utilising the Incubator, the visit showcased how the innovation hub nurtures and supports Northumbria’s students and graduates in their entrepreneurial endeavours. 

Purpose Coalition Chair, Justine Greening said: “The convergence of purpose-led organisations from both the private and educational sectors in collaboration holds immense power in advancing shared values and missions aimed at bolstering equality of opportunity and social mobility.”

Chief Executive Officer at Sodexo UK&I, Sean Haley said: “I was proud to see how our teams support students to improve their mental and physical health to help manage the pressure, distractions and complications of studying and living away from home. 

Around 75% of a student’s time is spent within their accommodation. If they aren’t happy there, social engagement and preparation for life beyond the campus can really suffer. As a key partner of the university, we have been working with Northumbria to develop and refine a strategy that supports students in every aspect of their lives, which enables them to thrive in their education and reach their potential.

It was fantastic to visit Northumbria University to meet with colleagues from across the university as well as Sodexo colleagues who work together to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of those we serve and whose daily work embeds social impact into the heart of the services we provide.

Director of Social Impact for Sodexo UK&I, Angela Halliday said: “We firmly believe that every business bears a direct responsibility to contribute positively to society and improve the communities where they operate. This responsibility is something we take seriously and strive to embed in everything we do. 

“It was a pleasure to host Rt Hon Justine Greening at Northumbria University today to showcase the impact Sodexo has not only on the university but across Newcastle and the wider community. Sodexo is a purpose-led organisation, and we recognise that progress cannot be achieved in isolation.  It was humbling and inspiring to meet with a range of local partner organisations who are helping us to deliver social impact and social mobility.”