The University published a Community Charter setting out how it works with its communities as part of an event launching the University's Strategic Plan for 2017-20 (Wednesday 25 October).

At the event held at Speakers House in Westminster, the Vice Chancellor Bill Rammell welcomed new members of the University Court, which represents the local community, and includes leaders in businesses, public services, local councils, community organisations, faith, culture, and sport, as well as Members of Parliament for constituencies in the region.

He said: “We all want the same thing – for our towns and region to thrive economically, and for our citizens to be healthy in body, mind and spirit.”

The Vice Chancellor described the value the University brings to the region, including:

• Helping local businesses to succeed by providing the graduate level skills that drive business productivity
• Delivering research insight that addresses significant social challenges such as the ageing population, or the barriers faced in migrant and refugee communities, and supports business and public services to innovate.
• Ensuring equality of opportunity by opening up pathways to success through access to higher education

He said: “In total we estimate we contribute about £300 million annually to the region in jobs, education and research.”

Mr Rammell went on to solicit the support of those present to help the University achieve its plans.

He said: “Today I am asking for your help. Not your money, but your engagement, your time, and your attention.

“Internships and volunteering opportunities for our students. Expert advice for our lecturers and student societies. Offers of partnership projects. Above all, bring us your challenges and let us work with you to solve them.”

Mr Rammell continued: “I’m not going to stand in front of you today and claim that the University has the exact bit of research or technical expertise or the exact course you need.

“But I will promise you that if we engage in dialogue and seek shared solutions, together we will create something better than any of us could achieve on our own.”

The University of Bedfordshire Strategic Plan for 2017-20, sets out how the University will achieve its vision to expand higher education opportunities and broaden understanding and horizons.

The plan has four key pillars: ‘inspiring our diverse student body to achieve ambitious goals, engaging our people in innovation and development, expanding higher education opportunities and broadening understanding and horizons across the communities we engage’.