University signs pastoral pledge

The city-based University of Central Lancashire has pledged to support students estranged from their families so they can get the chance to succeed in higher education.

The public commitment comes as the university signed the Stand Alone Pledge, launched in October 2016 by Universities UK to support institutions in helping students without a family network.

Helping students from under-represented groups to succeed in higher education is a key focus of UCLan’s ethos and the university places a big emphasis on breaking down the barriers students may face to achieve their educational goals.

The university has an extensive outreach programme to reach estranged students in high schools and colleges, raising their aspirations of how well supported they would be in higher education

UCLan deputy vice-chancellor (Academic) Dr Lynne Livesey said: “We are proud to register our support and show the importance we place on helping students who are estranged from their family for a variety of reasons.

“Traditionally, these students are more likely to drop out of education so it is crucial that universities put extra measures in place to support them.

“To do this, we offer a whole host of initiatives including a care leavers bursary, access to internships and other employment opportunities, dedicated assistance from a named Student Services contact, flexible accommodation contracts and priority access to all student support services.”