50 Years

Introducing: impact in our community

None of us could have foreseen, less than 100 days ago at the start of our 50 years celebrations, the unprecedented circumstances in which we now find ourselves living.
Published on 01 Apr 2020

When so many of us are experiencing separation and isolation on an exceptional scale, our sense of community means more to us than ever.

Since it’s earliest days our university has always been a Leeds anchor. I am proud that in the fight against COVID-19 we are maintaining that strong tradition. From lending our landmark Rose Bowl building to be used as a base for training new NHS staff and providing equipment for testing and care, to students and staff preparing to join the NHS frontline fight and isolating a community of nearly 30,000 people to help stem the tide and impact of the contagion. And all the while continuing to deliver services which will define our students’ futures, and paying our suppliers so they too can support their staff. Leeds Beckett is playing its part in a national effort never before experienced in peace time Britain. 

We have, of course, always sought to make a positive and decisive difference to people, organisations and communities. It is part of our DNA. This April we will be shining a spotlight on our contribution to our community over the 50 years since we became a Polytechnic.

From free legal advice delivered at our law clinics, to encouraging children to become more active with our Wristbands 30:30 scheme, to help we have given to new business start-ups, addressing poverty and homelessness, through to launching our own publishing company to include more diversity in children’s’ literature – there are some truly compelling stories.

Our service to the Leeds community continues to matter throughout the current national health crisis, and will do so in the future.