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The Breaking Down Barriers Report

We were founded with the purpose of enriching lives and changing the world through the advancement of learning. As we approach our 200th anniversary in 2032, we have a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to making a positive impact in our region, country and beyond.

In 2024, we commissioned an independent report to assess how we are contributing to achieving The Purpose Goals - goals designed by The Purpose Coalition to apply the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) in a UK context.

The Breaking Down Barriers report demonstrates the breadth and depth of our work to enhance social mobility. Read the full report below, or download a copy here.

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University student
We see our responsibilities as extending beyond ourselves, our campus, and those who will join us as students. Working with others locally, regionally and nationally, we can be a catalyst for a multi-agency, collective social effort to improve life chances and promote prosperity in our region and nation.

Professor Karen O'Brien
Vice-Chancellor and Warden

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University student
As anchor institutions, universities have the potential to be key drivers of social mobility and economic growth. Our work with Durham University has demonstrated how it is successfully breaking down the barriers to opportunity, using its global leadership to benefit the region. At the heart of its community, it is fostering a pipeline of talent, raising standards and aspirations through its extensive outreach work in schools and providing a nurturing and stimulating academic and social environment for its students.

Rt Hon Justine Greening
Purpose Coalition Chair, Former Secretary of State for Education

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University student
This report shows how Durham University is shifting the dial on place-based change. The strategic partnerships it has developed with other universities in the region, as well as with local authorities and businesses, have already helped it deliver dynamic and innovative outcomes. These cross-sector collaborations will also enable it to play a full and constructive role as a prominent stakeholder in the newly formed North East Combined Authority, a partnership which will give higher education institutions the opportunity to shape a changing regional landscape.

Nick Forbes CBE
Chair of the Breaking Down Barriers Commission
200,000 people have benefitted from North East Raising Aspirations Partnership activities since 2014
1,000 student-led clubs and societies, widening access to varying activities
120 countries represented among our staff and students
£1.9 billion Gross Value Added for the UK from Durham University every year

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University student
It’s fantastic to see the strong relationships between the university, Durham County Council, and the NHS being formally acknowledged, and the impact these are having on enhancing social mobility in the region. We all know that social mobility in the UK has stalled over the past decade, and Durham University has recognised its important position in the region. It has led the way on working with people of all ages to help improve access to participation in education, and in using their relationships to drive economic growth. As the report shows, this is just the beginning for Durham University, with collaborative efforts set to continue, paving the way for an exciting future for young people.

Mary Kelly Foy MP
MP for City of Durham

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University student
We’re proud that County Durham is home to a world class university, which plays a proactive role not just in education, but in research and development, supporting sectors such as health, energy, culture and scientific innovation. From our work in health and social care and ambitions to tackle climate change, to economic investment sites such as NETPark and Aykley Heads, our strong partnership with Durham University allows us to collaborate across all sectors to improve outcomes and create opportunities for residents in both the county and the wider North East region.

Councillor Amanda Hopgood
Leader of Durham County Council

Find out more

Learn more about the Purpose Coalition and explore how Durham is working towards the Purpose Goals.

The Purpose Coalition

The Purpose Coalition is made up of organisations who are committed to breaking down barriers to opportunity. Learn more about their work here.
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Research and Business Engagement

Discover more about our research and engagement with business.
A staff member talks to a group of people. She is standing next to a digital screen and holds a remote control in her hand. Attendees sit at a table listening and making notes

Widening Participation

Learn more about our work to widen participation and encourage fair access to higher education.
Members of Durham University's eSports team sat at a row of PCs, talking and laughing with one another

What We Achieve Together

Find out how Durham University contributes to the economic, cultural and social vibrancy of North East England.
A young girl examining a science experiment, with a man leaning over to help her