Unilink to support University of Southampton’s ‘Ignite’ student assistance programme

We are throwing our support behind a University of Southampton initiative designed to assist students from groups underrepresented in higher education. 

Ignite aims to create a fairer future for students from underrepresented backgrounds by using a holistic support model. It offers a blend of financial, academic, career and personal support to help students reach their full potential and achieve their ambitions in life. 

Our partnership with the University of Southampton began in 2008, transporting staff and students across the city’s teaching sites and halls of residence. Unilink buses are now used by passengers from all walks of life. 

To support the Ignite programme, we will be donating £100 for every 50,000 passengers who travel on our services during a four week period. 

Beginning on Sunday 16 August, the fundraising period is expected to see hundreds of thousands travelling along the Unilink network in Southampton. 

“We are pleased to be supporting the University of Southampton’s Ignite Programme, which provides vital support to those who may face significant challenges in their journey through higher education,” said Steve Whitehead, Unilink manager.

“Our strong partnership with the University, which spans nearly 20 years, means we play a significant role in the lives of many students here in Southampton - transporting them to-and-from campuses - as well as to other locations across the city. 

“We can fully appreciate how important assistance from the Ignite Programme is to some of those who travel with us - and are keen to do what we can to support it.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming as many people as possible on-board over the coming four weeks.”

Those on the Ignite Programme take part in a number of activities to help them develop skills and confidence to thrive at university.

Joanne Donahoe, executive director of development & alumni relations, at the University of Southampton, added: "We're delighted Unilink is getting behind Ignite. For nearly 20 years, Unilink has been woven into the daily life of our University community. 

“This initiative shows what that partnership can achieve when it's put to work for our students. Every journey taken over the next four weeks will directly help young people from underrepresented backgrounds see a place for themselves in higher education - and build the skills and confidence to get there. We're enormously grateful to Unilink, and to everyone who travels with them, for making this possible."