On 14 July 2026, the APPUG hosted an evening reception exploring the contribution universities make to communities across the UK and how government, businesses and civic partners can work together to maximise these benefits.
Discussion focused on universities’ role as anchor institutions, supporting local economic growth, skills development, innovation, public services and community wellbeing through their teaching, research, employment, estates and partnerships.
Speakers included:
Dr Rupa Huq MP, Chair, All-Party Parliamentary University Group
Vivienne Stern MBE, Chief Executive, Universities UK
Professor Chris Day CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor and President, Newcastle University
Anthony Breach, Director of Policy and Research, Centre for Cities
Dr Julian Skyrme, Executive Director of Social Responsibility and Civic Engagement, The University of Manchester
Contributions highlighted the breadth of universities’ civic activity, from working with employers and local government to develop skills and support growth, to strengthening public health, community resilience and local innovation.
Participants discussed the importance of ensuring that civic engagement is shaped by local priorities and that communities and civic leaders have a meaningful voice in university activity. There was also a strong emphasis on the need for a sustainable policy and funding environment that enables universities to maintain and strengthen their contribution to their local areas.