You care, UniCares

Unicares ensures care-experienced students graduate and go on to realise their dreams.

Young people who grow up in the care system often face significant obstacles that can prevent them from not only getting to university, but also staying there and completing their studies when they do.

University is one of the keys to closing the gap in life outcomes that care leavers have with their peers.

That only around 15 per cent of care experienced students make it to university compared to nearly 50 per cent of young people in general, and, that they are ten times more likely to be NEET (not in education, employment, or training), are sobering statistics that illustrate how much work remains to be done.

This is where UniCares comes in, which with the help of alumni donations, offers a full range of support to these young people, such as pastoral and educational support, advice on accommodation, priority access to counselling and careers advice. All of this helps them to navigate the ups and downs of life at City St George’s, go on to graduate and head out into the wider world and make a meaningful difference.

From the very first day that these young people arrive at City St George’s and throughout the challenging journey to the life-changing goal of graduation, UniCares accompanies them every step of the way.

The results of this work are very encouraging. About 71 cent of care-experienced students graduating are in employment, further study, or a mix of the two, a rate that is closing in on the 77 per cent seen among non-care-experienced students.

Difficult beginnings and circumstances should never define a young person’s dreams, ambitions and career aspirations.

Care leavers often lack strong support networks and need to become independent at a much younger age than their peers. They face multi-layered challenges that they must navigate without the guidance or safety net of a parent or guardian.

But this forced independence can also lead to greater resilience. And with alumni support added in, we are able to ensure that this resilience is rewarded. Here is just one story that illustrates a UniCares student overcoming adversity.

Ali is in the final year of BSc Aeronautical Engineering and is excelling. This in itself is a remarkable achievement since Ali tragically lost both of his parents at the age of ten. We sat down with Ali and learned all about his difficult journey to higher education and those all-important plans for the future.

“My time in the care system was really difficult, living in communal houses with other care-experienced boys. Unfortunately, this wasn’t ideal. The support I got was lacking and my ambitions were often overlooked.

“Sixth form was so tough. My mental health suffered and I faced big financial pressure. I needed extra academic support, but I just couldn’t access it.

We asked Ali just how much of a difference UniCares was making to his time here.

“Before arriving at City St George’s, I felt isolated and unsupported. UniCares have been incredible, though. A care leaver bursary allowed me to buy a powerful laptop – essential for my course, which requires advanced graphics capabilities. For the first time, I could complete assignments and carry out research from home.

“Plus, knowing that 24/7 advice is available through UniCares gives me peace of mind. The mental health support and priority counselling are invaluable. I’ve broadened my horizons by joining the Formula Student team, where we’re building a car to compete at Silverstone next year.”

“My dream is to become a pilot at British Airways, the best airline in the world. This is why I chose Aeronautical Engineering as my degree. I’m also working towards applying for their Speedbird Pilot Academy Preparation programme in 2027. I’m using this time to prepare thoroughly and build my experience.

“Funding is a major hurdle, and I’m actively seeking sponsorship to cover the costs. I’m attending aviation events, connecting with mentors and doing everything I can to strengthen my application. Many applicants have the advantage of obtaining a Private Pilot License, which significantly boosts their chances – but that requires a budget I simply don’t have yet. I’m hopeful that I’ll be eligible later in the year and I’m also applying for a British Airways internship.

“I’m also now a Student Ambassador for the Widening Participation programme at the University, mentoring and volunteering to support students like myself.”

And finally, how does Ali think his mother and father would feel about all that he has achieved?

“I think they’d be proud – quietly proud, maybe even surprised. My journey hasn’t been straightforward and I’ve had to make a lot of decisions on my own, often without the kind of guidance or encouragement that many others take for granted. But I’ve always believed that if I kept pushing forward, stayed focused and didn’t let my circumstances define me, I could build something meaningful.

“If they could see how far I’ve come – from making my way through the care system, fighting for my education and now studying Aeronautical Engineering with the dream of becoming a pilot – I think they’d feel a mix of pride and maybe even regret. Pride in what I’ve achieved, and perhaps regret for not being part of the journey. But I don’t dwell on that. I’m going to channel everything into building a future I’m proud of and into helping others who’ve faced similar challenges.”

We will watch Ali’s progress with interest and hope. Indeed, UniCares is all about changing the trajectories of young people and helping them to navigate the challenges that would put their studies or wellbeing at risk. It gives them the stability and confidence that they need to thrive, sending them out into the world with the qualifications and confidence to succeed in a challenging job market.

To support students like Ali, contact our Regular Giving Manager, Jason Barlow at: Jason.Barlow@citystgeorges.ac.uk