Twelve young people from low-income households have been awarded scholarships worth a total of £216,000 by housing association L&Q, helping them access higher education at some of the UK’s top universities.
Eleven of the successful applicants are from London communities where L&Q provides social and affordable housing, including Brixton, Ealing and Woolwich.
Thanks to funding from L&Q’s supply chain partners, the scholars will receive an annual contribution of £6,000 for three years towards their university costs. Alongside financial support, they’ll benefit from mentoring and networking opportunities, equipping them with the tools needed to succeed after graduation.
Open to L&Q residents living in social or affordable rented homes, the programme was established in 2017 to help level the playing field for students from underprivileged backgrounds. By easing the financial burden of higher education, it enables talented young people to continue their studies in their chosen subject at a university of their choice.
The fund is named after Turlogh O’Brien, L&Q’s former chairman and a lifelong advocate for educational opportunity. Since its launch, it has helped 41 students.
Funding for the scholarship programme is provided by Axis, Equans, Enigma Security Solutions, Ideal Heating, Lovell Renew, Sureserve and United Infrastructure.
Matt Corbett, Director of L&Q Foundation said: “Whilst ambition is everywhere, opportunity doesn’t always follow. As one of the largest social landlords in the country, we have a responsibility to invest in our communities and help create pathways for residents to succeed.
This programme is a great example of how collaboration can deliver meaningful social value, breaking down barriers for people with the talent and determination to thrive. Congratulations to our scholars, and a huge thank you to our supply chain partners, whose generosity has made this all possible.”
One of the scholars, Marisa said: “After two years of hard work, resilience and determination at sixth form I’m incredibly proud to be starting a new chapter at the University of Exeter with the support of an L&Q scholarship.
There were times when success felt out of reach and I even considered giving up on my A Levels. Receiving my results showed me that dedication and perseverance really do pay off. This scholarship has lifted a huge burden from my shoulders and made university possible for me. It’s genuinely life-changing, and I’m excited to begin my studies and make the most of the opportunities ahead. I’m incredibly grateful to L&Q for their support.”
The scholarship backs a diverse range of individuals, from high academic achievers to those who meet entry requirements and demonstrate determination, motivation and commitment. Among this year’s recipients are students studying engineering, chemistry, law, and architecture at leading institutions including Kings College London.
At the assessment day, 20 shortlisted applicants took part in a bridge-building challenge using lollipop sticks, straws and sellotape. Priority was given to applicants from lower-income households, with selection based on attitude and potential.
For many young people, the path to higher education can be limited by financial pressures and a lack of support. Recent reports lay bare the true cost of going to university, with research from Blackbullion, the student money platform, finding that 88% of students worry about money, the highest level ever recorded
