IS SUE 8
YOUR GIFT MAKING A DIFFERENCE
www.lboro.ac.uk/giving
Welcome Welcome to the latest edition of Your Gift: the magazine that celebrates the difference that you, our supporters, make to the University. Many of the opportunities that we offer to our students are made possible by your generosity. One of the things that I admire about this publication is that it shows how our alumni and other members of the wider Loughborough family come together to make a difference. You will see that mental health features prominently in this edition of Your Gift and you can read (on page 02) about how your gifts are protecting student wellbeing. There are also inspiring stories from students whose lives have changed for the better through a combination of their time at Loughborough and your philanthropy. In this edition we also celebrate 100 years of student rugby, 15 years of our incredible Volunteer Zambia programme and 10 years of the Schofield Society. Thank you once again for everything you do to support the University.
Professor Robert Allison Vice-Chancellor and President of Loughborough University
WHY I GIVE TO LOUGHBOROUGH
Why I give to Loughborough “Since becoming a member of the Schofield Society, I have seen first-hand the amazing developments that are happening at Loughborough, in all areas of education, which help make it the outstanding institution it is today. I believe that to recognise that in my Will and help give back what was so generously given to me at the start of my career can in a small way make a difference to young people’s lives.” Jenny Humphries Management Sciences, 1978 Member of the Schofield Society
“Eleanor Roosevelt once said that ‘The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams’. The founders of the Loughborough Technical Institute had a dream in 1909 of promoting skills and knowledge that would be directly applicable in the wider world. They dreamed their dream in a modest Midlands market town, far from the great centres of academia. They would have been amazed that their dream not only survived the 20th century but flourished in the way it has. We have been inspired by their example and feel privileged to be sharing in the Loughborough dream.” Reverend Martin and Sue Dryden Business Administration with a Modern Language, 1980 Members of the Schofield Society
Contents
Cover story On the cover is Rahul, a student who has struggled with his mental health for a number of years, but found his second home at Loughborough Students’ Union (LSU). Rahul became the President of LSU in 2018/19 and thanks all the donors who have supported the mental health services at the University. To read his story, please turn to page 02.
Student experience
02
Access to education
08
Giving the gift of Loughborough
09
Sport
10
Global health and wellbeing
14
Celebrating 10 years of the Schofield Society
16
Regular giving matters
17
A simple thank you
18
Donation form
19
Making a difference
21
01
02 STUDENT EXPERIENCE
Student experience
STUDENT EXPERIENCE
When times get tough Did you know that over 87% of students experience feelings of anxiety whilst at university? From this, 42% described themselves as often or always worried and 1 in 3 reported experiencing a serious psychological issue for which they felt they needed professional help.* We imagine you find these figures as concerning as we do. Mental health is a prominent issue in society as a whole and is no less so across the higher education sector. For many students, starting university is the biggest change in their lives so far, and it’s not always as straightforward as people think it will be. It’s easy to forget about the possible emotional impact that the transition can have. Here we share with you the story of a Loughborough student who, in the face of adversity, took the opportunities and support available to him to transform not only his university experience, but his life.
Starting out Rahul had always wanted to go to Loughborough University. It was his first choice. He wanted to play hockey and study engineering. He even had a clear plan – study for an integrated master’s degree over five years that would give him an undergraduate and postgraduate qualification, followed by a PhD, and play hockey along the way. Although he’d previously experienced difficulties with his mental health, he’d never thought of it as something that could affect him, and a lack of general awareness across society in comparison to today meant that it seemed easier to ignore it than act.
— “My situation started to affect my studies first and foremost – but then my social life too. I stopped talking to people because I felt so depressed. I stopped playing sports because I didn’t have any motivation to do anything I enjoyed anymore. Everything just fell apart. I felt like there was nothing left in my life worth pursuing.” —
Things began to spiral
“They were excellent – they
Rahul’s first year at Loughborough went well. He experienced no major problems. It was at the beginning of his second year he first noticed things weren’t going so well. He struggled to concentrate, his attendance slipped, and his grades started to plummet.
signposted me to all the
“My situation started to affect my studies first and foremost – but then my social life too. I stopped talking to people because I felt so depressed. I stopped playing sports because I didn’t have any motivation to do anything I enjoyed anymore. Everything just fell apart. I felt like there was nothing left in my life worth pursuing.” Rahul had no idea what was going on, but his school did. They recognised that there was an issue and put him on a leave of absence from his course.
*Statistics taken from www.freshstudentliving.co.uk/university-student-mental-health-uk
correct people, putting me in touch with the Mental Health Support team at the University, the Counselling and Disability Service and the Medical Centre.” During this process, things got worse for Rahul before they got better. Feeling like he had no purpose and nothing going on in his life, he couldn’t see a way to hold on to anything. He hit rock bottom. Soon after though, through the support he’d been given previously, Rahul was finally given a diagnosis – he had Bipolar Disorder. He finally felt like he had something tangible to tackle and a way to explain what had been interfering with his daily life in such an extreme way.
03
04 STUDENT EXPERIENCE
Taking to the stage Rahul knew that the diagnosis alone wasn’t going to make things better. Still on a leave of absence from his course, he decided to go along to a mid-year bazaar being run by Loughborough Students’ Union (LSU) to see what was available to get involved with. “I’d always perceived the Students’ Union as ‘where Freshers’ Week happens’ and in my first year I don’t think I’d ventured into the building during the day after that first week. It’s so much more though. I’ve said this before and will continue to say – LSU saved my life.” Rahul signed up to the Stage Society. He’d done a little bit of drama at school and was really interested in theatre so thought it would be a good way to keep busy. Being conscious of how he felt at the time, he didn’t go for any onstage roles, choosing instead to work behind the scenes doing sound engineering. “It went really well, and everyone was super nice. I made some amazing friends, people I’m still friends with to this day.” From this point, Rahul’s involvement in the Society escalated. He moved from backstage to centre stage and his confidence began to grow. Many of his peers in the society were involved in the Students’ Union too, and it was this introduction to and becoming involved with LSU that lead to Rahul feeling like he’d finally found himself again. This time he’d discovered who he truly was, rather than who he thought he was supposed to be.
— “Without the Students’ Union, the people who come with it and the opportunities it gave me, I simply wouldn’t be here. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve all the things I managed to do as a student, as President of the Students’ Union and a member of the wider community.” —
“Everyone was so understanding, kind, patient and willing to help. Whenever I was feeling down or unable to contemplate doing anything, I would just go into LSU and sit in one of the offices and relax, knowing there were people there to talk to. For students who are struggling it creates a home, an environment where people can feel safe.” Rahul’s involvement with LSU grew and grew. He was Chair of the Stage Society, a Hall Students Federation Societies Rep, sat on various committees and boards, and was heavily involved with the volunteering and fundraising arms of the Students’ Union and LSU Media.
Giving back Rahul went on to be elected as the President of LSU, seeing it as a great opportunity to give back to the community that had done so much for him. “During my time at Loughborough I have been lucky enough to be involved in almost every aspect of LSU and gotten so much out of it. The people I’ve met, the things I have achieved, and the opportunities I’ve had, have made me a much better person than the student who arrived in September 2012.
“We have something like 10,000 opportunities to get involved with at LSU, so it’s almost endless what you can do. I knew that if I could change just one student’s experience in the same way that mine had been, I’d see it as a successful year.”
An unexpected path Rahul’s Loughborough journey started out the same as many students here at Loughborough – he came here to get a top-class degree and play some sports. But no Loughborough journey is the same. Everything changed for Rahul, which led him down an unexpected path. But with support and his new-found family at LSU, Rahul carved out a new path for himself – the path that he was clearly meant to be on. “Without the Students’ Union, the people who come with it and the opportunities it gave me, I simply wouldn’t be here. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve all the things I managed to do as a student, as President of the Students’ Union and a member of the wider community.”
“LSU changed my entire life, and it did it all for the better.”
STUDENT EXPERIENCE
How your support is helping Students at Loughborough have access to a variety of services that can support them when in need. Whether it’s personal circumstances, their health, an academic issue or something else, there is always someone on campus ready to listen and support them in finding a solution. This kind of support is available through both the University and Loughborough Students’ Union (LSU), and the services and opportunities they both provide are strongly supported by the generosity of our donors. Your support in the last year has:
Created a new space for the student voice Donations from the Loughborough Fund were gifted to LSU to complete a refit of the Student Voice, Representation and Advice Centre. The Student Voice Centre provides essential representation and advice to students in times of need. The team also delivers training to hundreds of course and school representatives, and Peer Support volunteers, who deliver essential work across campus in support of the academic experience of our students. Located inside the Students’ Union building, the department has grown significantly in recent years and is now a fundamental part of the support network available on campus. However, this growth means that the space they are operating from is no longer fit for purpose. As the team often work with students in distress, they will use the donations to create a space that allows students to discuss their situation privately and with dignity.
Strengthened an essential service Donations from gifts in Wills were used to fund training, recruitment and raise awareness of the Nightline service. The confidential, non-advisory listening and information service, that is run for students by trained student volunteers from the University, used the financial support to recruit and train 88 new volunteers, who went on to volunteer a total of 3,922 hours across 130 shifts. The service, which has been running since 2015, was first established thanks to funding from donors. In addition to a listening ear, the team also run various other initiatives connected to student safety and welfare, including a Nightline Bus during term time which takes students safely home for free after a night out, puppy petting sessions and panel discussions for students about wellbeing and self-care.
— “Loughborough is such a family – even if you don’t necessarily have people around you outside of university, there are always people on campus willing to help you. There are so many wonderful people raising awareness and doing great things for mental health at Loughborough.” Emily Sport and Exercise Science student —
05
06 STUDENT EXPERIENCE
Donations drive Loughborough students to car-racing success Loughborough’s Formula Student team have moved into the Eccleston Student Engineering Centre and are using it to build this year’s car, LU Motorsport’s first ever electric Formula Student car. The move, which was made possible thanks to the generosity of donors, has provided the team with a purpose-built space to work in and top-of-the-range equipment, such as a laptop that allows the team to collect and analyse data both trackside and in the lab.
The relocation took place during the team’s most successful season to date – which saw them place 4th out of 81 teams at Formula Student UK and named best UK team in Austria whilst achieving their fastest ever skid pad time. Thanks to the support of donors, the team is looking forward to building upon these achievements in the upcoming season. The Eccleston Student Engineering Centre is for students across all engineering disciplines, to design and build everything from models and prototypes to drones and race cars.
In 2018/19 the team had their most successful season to date
4th out of 81 teams at Formula Student UK
We would like to especially thank Loughborough Aeronautical Engineering alumnus and retired CEO of Airbus Americas, Barry Eccleston, and his wife Valerie, for their outstanding support for the new Eccleston Student Engineering Centre.
STUDENT EXPERIENCE
Funding the future The brands and businesses that are a part of our everyday lives all started somewhere. No matter how big they are today, they will have started as a smaller operation.
“In order to expand my business, I needed to invest in necessary software. The Start-Up Fund enabled me to do this without relying on loans at what was probably the business’s most vulnerable time.
The Start-Up Fund at Loughborough gives budding entrepreneurs at the University the chance to start their own entrepreneurial journey and develop the businesses of tomorrow. The Fund is a vital part of the Loughborough Enterprise Network, an integrated programme that brings together activities and opportunities from across the University to support students and graduates at every stage of their entrepreneurial journey. In 2018/19, 45 applications were made to the scheme, with 13 of the business ventures securing funding between £700 and £5,000. A substantial proportion of this funding was provided by donors, showing that the money they generously choose to give in the present is being invested in boosting the future. Whether it be for equipment, software, product development or promotion, your support is helping these early-stage businesses to take their crucial next steps.
“Receiving the grant was a huge weight off my shoulders, as it meant a significant portion of my start-up costs would be covered.” Tony Elkington
Studio Elk Industrial design consultancy
“My business is a passion project at heart so being awarded the grant has shown me that other people believe in the idea too. “For a long time, I felt that I would have to put my business plans on hold until after I graduated – but this opportunity has helped me to start sooner and grow my business alongside my studies.” Bake Balance Protein brownies that taste even better than the bakery
In 2018/19, 45 applications were made to the scheme
Ashleigh Ponder
“The generosity of donors will make a real, tangible and lasting difference to my business. They’ve given me the opportunity to kickstart my business properly, and the reassurance that what I’m doing is worth investing in.”
13 of the business ventures secured funding between £700 and £5,000
Adam Dismore Videography Producing digital content for the sports industry Adam Dismore
07
08 ACCESS TO EDUCATION
Access to education Striving to succeed regardless of the obstacles If you’ve ever met a scholarship recipient, you’ll know first-hand the overwhelming gratitude they have towards supporters of the University’s scholarship schemes. If you haven’t been able to meet with a scholar yet, let us introduce you to Dean. Now a final year student studying Retail, Marketing and Management, Dean was awarded an Opportunity Scholarship (formerly known as a Development Trust Scholarship) in 2016. Dean applied for a Scholarship because he knew that attending university would leave him and his family under considerable financial strain, something he didn’t want to do as they already faced problems, including his
mum’s struggle with her mental health. Dean is the first in his family to attend university and says that “my immediate family have inspired me to strive to succeed, and I’ve always held it close to my heart that, when I did, I would be able to support them.” And strive to succeed he has… Dean has maintained great exam results, set up the University’s first Retail Society and achieved the Loughborough Employability Award throughout his time at Loughborough. He also obtained a highly competitive placement at Dunelm, where he flourished. Alongside his family, he recognises the donor who funds his scholarship as a key pillar of support.
— “Donors make it possible for students like me to have life-changing Loughborough experiences. The scholars who receive them are igniting a new dimension of ambition in our community.” Dean Retail, Marketing and Management —
Revealing the possibilities of higher education The University has always focused on making coming to Loughborough a possibility for all, no matter what your background. Over the last couple of years, the work in this area and its impact has rocketed... quite literally in some cases. The HE Unboxed initiative helps teachers across the country to inform and excite their students about the post-18 options available to them – all through the delivery of an interactive session, which is sent to them in a box. This includes an aeronautical engineering focused box that tasks students with making their own rockets. Over 100 schools have participated so far, engaging almost 6,500 students in the process. The boxes have been well received, with feedback
showing that the content of each box is rated well for enjoyment and usefulness in understanding university and what it has to offer. Starting in 2017 with just one box, the initiative now has over 25 boxes to choose from, covering a whole host of subject areas, skills and employer-focused activities. This includes the more recent developments of Skills in a Box and Success in a Box – two new series of boxes, the former focusing on understanding key transferrable skills, and the latter developed in collaboration with various employers. This year the team has also introduced Subject in a Box Global – which gives students the opportunity to share their findings from the activity with peers from other countries via an online gallery of work.
The expansion of the initiative has been made possible thanks to the donors who have generously supported this, and other important ‘widening participation’ activity, over recent months.
You can find out more about the initiative at www.lboro.ac.uk/study/he-unboxed
GIVING THE GIFT OF LOUGHBOROUGH
Giving the gift of Loughborough Every year, current Loughborough students take to the phones to speak with alumni about their experiences since graduation and update them on campus developments. The annual event also gives those that can, the opportunity to give back to the University and support students who are currently, or one day hope to, experience life at Loughborough for themselves.
Gifts that will mean the world This year, as a result of over 1,000 conversations, over £100,000 was donated by alumni. This amazing amount will have a significant impact when it is used to provide scholarships to students from low-income backgrounds – talented students that would not be able to attend Loughborough without financial support. In the words of one of the scholars, it’s ‘probably one of the best gifts anyone could ever give’.
Connecting the Loughborough family This year’s telethon was delivered by 35 current Loughborough students, giving them the opportunity to develop their skills and confidence and be part of an amazing experience. The campaign puts Loughborough students past and present in touch with each other – even when their time at Loughborough could be separated by 50 years.
— “I love having meaningful conversations with people who once walked the path I’m now on. The affection they have for Loughborough ten, twenty, thirty years after they graduated is incredible. So much has changed in that time, and yet so much stays the same! They care greatly about the current generation of students and are brimming with advice.” Steph Student caller Spring Telethon 2019 —
Part of something bigger The telethon is a great way for alumni to lend their support to many initiatives across the University, including supporting scholarships, developing facilities and creating life-changing experiences for Loughborough students. The telethon is one of many opportunities throughout the year for our alumni to give what they can in support of their alma mater. As you can see from the figures to the right, the power of many people giving what they can makes a big difference!
— “When asked to give back to help those from low-income backgrounds, many of our alums didn’t hesitate to give what they can. They know the important role Loughborough has played in their lives, the invaluable experience they gained whilst here, and the friends they made for life. They want to give that back to others.” Lydia Student caller Spring Telethon 2019 —
1,133 CONVERSATIONS BETWEEN STUDENT CALLERS AND ALUMNI
366 ALUMNI WHO GENEROUSLY PLEDGED THEIR SUPPORT
£13 THE GIFT MOST PEOPLE CHOOSE TO GIVE, EACH MONTH
£108,250 THE DIFFERENCE MADE BY MANY PEOPLE COMING TOGETHER TO SUPPORT THE TELETHON
09
10 SPORT
Sport An unimaginable opportunity “Looking at my background, the greatest gift anyone could give me is my education. Receiving this from one of the best universities in UK is a dream come true.” Have you ever had a dream? An aspiration that you wanted more than anything, but felt it was just that – a goal that was impossible to achieve? Stewart had long dreamed of gaining a university education, and with a passion for football too, he dreamed of doing it at Loughborough. However, with finances acting as a major barrier, he wasn’t sure how this could be achieved.
Taking his opportunity Stewart is from Zambia, where he attends a Christian orphanage called the Fountain of Hope in Lusaka. In the past, Loughborough students have visited the orphanage as part of the Volunteer Zambia programme – a long-standing international sport development project where students and staff volunteer their time to deliver school PE lessons, community sports programmes and health awareness workshops. During 2018, the Vice-Chancellor travelled to Zambia to experience the project for himself. During the visit he met Stewart, and Stewart seized the opportunity to express his desire to join the Loughborough family.
Marking a milestone in a rewarding way
Stewart with the Vice-Chancellor
— “I was delighted to begin a new wonderful chapter of my life. My story should remind any young person getting started on what they want to do that no matter how big a dream is, there is a way of achieving it.” Stewart Scholarship recipient and first year student —
Just a year later, the University was celebrating 15 years of involvement with Volunteer Zambia and decided to mark the anniversary by awarding a one-off full undergraduate scholarship, to bring a student from Zambia to study at Loughborough. Stewart was a stand-out beneficiary of Loughborough Sport’s work through Volunteer Zambia, and his passion for football, photography and media made him an ideal candidate to receive the award. Stewart joined Loughborough in September 2019, starting a social science course with an international foundation year.
The transformational effect of your donations The Zambia scholarship has been fully funded by multiple donations from our supporters, and adds to the significant philanthropic impact Loughborough is having in this part of Africa. This includes major donations received by the University’s Coaching and Volunteering Academy, who help to deliver the Volunteer Zambia programme – amongst other initiatives – all of which shows the huge transformational effect of this kind of support and student volunteering abroad. Last summer, six Loughborough students headed out to Zambia, and, working alongside staff and students from six other universities, delivered sport development programmes to over 160,000 children and six sporting organisations. As a result of their efforts, over £15,000 was raised, three new community sport hubs were established in Lusaka and 20 new Zambian volunteers were upskilled and supported.
SPORT
From fearing PE to elite rower Finishing school and starting university is a big transition for most. It’s an exciting but daunting time. You could be moving away from home for the first time, you’re responsible for your own learning, and of course you’re starting from scratch with meeting new people and making friends. Add to this a not so great experience at school and you can understand why your nerves might overtake the feelings of excitement when starting the next chapter of your life. George Nixon felt exactly that way. Having had a tough time at school and feeling like he didn’t fit in, he was nervous about the prospect of starting university. “I was born with a bilateral cleft lip and people used to take the mick out of it when I was growing up” said George. “At school I didn’t fit into a particular social group, I wasn’t good at sport and I wasn’t very popular.”
— “When you come to university, there are so many more people, everyone is much more mature and are interested in you as a person. If you join a society or get involved in sport with people who are likeminded, you are able to fit into a group of people who are very much like you.” —
George underwent his first cleft lip repair surgery at Great Ormand Street Hospital shortly after he was born, and he had a bone graft at the age of 13. Just months before starting at Loughborough, he had a third procedure on his lip, when his face had fully developed.
“When you come to university, there are so many more people, everyone is much more mature and are interested in you as a person.
Starting as a beginner in his first
“If you join a society or get involved in sport with people who are likeminded, you are able to fit into a group of people who are very much like you.”
Rowing Club and more recently
“I was worried that university was going to be a repeat of the years I experienced at school” said George.
With Loughborough’s incredible reputation for sport, George decided to try a new sport and, being quite tall, thought thought that rowing might be for him. Since then he has never looked back.
However, three years on, with a degree in Politics and International Business and a promising future in rowing, George has praised Loughborough for helping him to believe in his abilities and encouraging him to pursue what would soon become a new passion.
year, George excelled over the next few years to become Captain of Loughborough Students’ rowed in the Henley Regatta. “Rowing has had an enormously positive impact on my university experience. It’s taken up a lot of time and it is a big sacrifice, but if you put the work in you can achieve more than you could ever dream of.”
Thank you to all our donors who have supported the Athletics Union (AU) Clubs at Loughborough – from rowing to volleyball, sailing and dance – your donations help current students unlock their confidence and discover the things they are truly passionate about.
11
12 SPORT
One hundred years on top This year marks an important year for rugby at Loughborough as Loughborough Students Rugby Club celebrate 100 years of sporting excellence. The Club has long occupied a unique and special place in the history of the game in this country, having produced world class players and performances over the decades. Donning the African Violet shirt, or the maroon jersey of the 1970s and 80s, has been a great privilege for thousands of individuals over the years, and a great debt is owed to the generations of players, coaches, support staff and volunteers for their tireless
commitment that has made Loughborough Students Rugby what it is today. A great deal of this influential support has been provided by donors, who have shown their continual side-line support for the Club, whether it be through giving their time, sharing their expertise and advice or providing the financial support that has opened doors and opportunities for a huge number of players over the years.
CELEBRATE WITH US To celebrate 100 years of student rugby at Loughborough, the University is hosting a series of events and campaigns throughout the year – including matches, limited edition commemorative shirts and reunion lunches. As supporters of Loughborough, we’d love you to celebrate with us. Visit the Rugby Centenary website at
www.lboro.ac.uk/sport/rugby100
SPORT
The Daryl Jelinek Sporting Scholarship Daryl Jelinek was a prominent figure in the Loughborough Students Rugby Club. After he passed away, his family and friends established a scholarship that would give talented players the opportunity to pull on the coveted Loughborough Students Rugby Club jersey.
— “Daryl Jelinek has paved the way for people like me to play rugby for Loughborough. Without him, I would’ve had to give up playing with my friends, lay down the African Violet and halt my rugby development.” Oghenesuvwe (Suvwe) Third year student and Daryl Jelinek Sporting Scholarship recipient —
Daryl studied at the University from 1980 to 1983, during which time he captained the team whilst also playing for England U23s. After he passed away in July 2018, his family and friends set up the Daryl Jelinek Sporting Scholarship and thanks to the generosity of Daryl’s family and friends, and the donors who have since contributed to the fund, Loughborough Sport was able to award the first scholarship from the fund last year. Currently in his third year of an Applied Sport Science course, Oghenesuvwe (Suvwe) was awarded the scholarship in recognition of his significant contribution to the squad and to
alleviate the financial pressures he faced as he entered his final year of study. Suvwe started playing rugby at the age of 10, when he was approached by a bystander at his local rugby club whilst playing football with his brother, who insisted he was playing with the wrong shaped ball. Since starting at Loughborough, he has been an essential part of the Men’s Rugby Performance team. Previously, Suvwe has had to work several jobs at night and in his free time around his rugby and academic commitments. This scholarship is allowing him to dedicate more time and effort into both his studies and training.
Be a part of the Loughborough Rugby story As we celebrate this special milestone, thanks must go to our Rugby Vice Presidents (VPs). Their support over the last few years has undoubtably contributed to the success and development of the Club. The Rugby Vice Presidents scheme was set up several seasons ago by a small group of Loughborough Students Rugby supporters, including alumni and university staff, who wanted to support the students and become more involved in the Club. The programme now has over 70 VPs, all of whom are passionate about the Club and are using their influence and expertise to improve the player experience.
Are you interested in influencing the Loughborough Rugby story by becoming a VP? A donation of at least £100 per season is requested, which goes directly towards the operational costs of the Club and improving the player experience. In return VPs are invited to pre-match lunches at 1st team home games and other dinners, involved in pre-match briefings, and invited to partake in other Club events and initiatives.
For further information please contact: Hayley Boereboom E: h.boereboom@lboro.ac.uk T: 01509 228685 / 07825 421363
13
14 GLOBAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Global health and wellbeing Research that gives new meaning to life Life is for living. That should be an option for all, no matter what adversity they have had to overcome. Thanks to donations from alumni and friends of the University, critical research is underway to look at traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and how they are diagnosed and treated, to ensure that individuals have the opportunity to get back to fitness, to work and live meaningful lives.
The support has part-funded a PhD which is investigating how individuals who have suffered a TBI can be rehabilitated quickly and effectively. Delivered in partnership with the Royal Defence Medical Services, the work will form part of a mini-Centre for Doctoral Training in Defence Medicine, which is being led by Professor Mark Lewis of the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences. So, why military personnel specifically? Members of the Armed Forces can pay a high price for serving their nation, and unfortunately TBI is the ‘signature injury of modern war’. This research will look at the understanding behind diagnosing and treating TBIs, focusing on early biomarkers, how nutrition
can support recovery, rehabilitation methods and technology. The research will be carried out at DMRC (Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre) Stanford Hall, which sits on the outskirts of Loughborough and offers the perfect environment for developing the knowledge that is needed. DMRC Stanford Hall gives Loughborough academics and researchers the unique opportunity to work directly with patients affected by TBIs. The facility also provides a further opportunity for this work to benefit the wider general public, as the National Rehabilitation Centre, a new clinical rehabilitation centre for NHS patients, is being built on the same site. Patients in both centres will benefit from shared expertise, knowledge and facilities in what will be known as the Defence and National Rehabilitation Centre (DNRC).
GLOBAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING
In the UK, only 35% of civilians return to work after suffering a major trauma, compared to 85% of the military.
In the UK, only 35% of civilians return to work after suffering a major trauma, compared to 85% of the military. This number is also significantly lower than other countries. Working with the DNRC, the University hopes to help close this gap. This work is part of an ongoing partnership between the University and the Ministry of Defence, which is delivering projects that will advance our understanding of chronic health issues, especially musculoskeletal injury and lifestyle-associated disease. The research, which is being delivered through both the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences and the National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine, has the potential to deliver huge benefits to the nation’s health. For further information visit www.thednrc.org.uk
Eye-tracking tests may be key to predicting who will develop Alzheimer’s disease Thank you to all donors who have continued to support Loughborough’s dementia research, following our first ever dementia research appeal, launched in 2017. With support from your donations, three talented early-career researchers have had the opportunity to undertake PhD Fellowships with the aim of improving the lives of those with dementia. Their research explores various aspects of life with dementia, ranging from improving the design of the home, to creating tools to train carers, to decisions around end of life care and attitudes to assisted dying. Donations have also covered the cost of travel for volunteers – those with dementia and their immediate carers/families – taking part in Loughborough research projects. The team at Loughborough has also been able to make exciting breakthroughs in diagnosing dementia. The study has found that eye-tracking technology can identify patients considered to be at high risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, offering a potential pathway to earlier diagnosis of the disease.
Eye-tracking tests can be used to identify people with mild memory and thinking impairment, also called mild cognitive impairment or ‘MCI’. People with MCI have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, with the highest risk group being those with amnesic MCI (‘aMCI’, or memory loss predominant MCI). The research team worked to develop eye tracking tests that could distinguish between groups of patients with different types of MCI. They discovered they were able to accurately distinguish between the groups using the tracking technologies. Researcher Dr Thom Wilcockson explains, “These results indicate that it is possible to predict which MCI patients are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. “This would help with monitoring disease progression and may ultimately help identify whether treatments would be effective.”
Thank you for contributing to this potentially life-saving research through your donations.
15
16 CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF THE SCHOFIELD SOCIETY
Celebrating 10 years of the Schofield Society Herbert Schofield, former Principal of Loughborough College, laid the foundations of the University we are proud to be a part of today. His ambition in his role was simple; to put Loughborough on the world stage. Seventy years later, Schofield’s ambition lives on, as we continue to be a leading institution. The Schofield Society – a group of donors who share a firm commitment to supporting the University and its students – have played a key role in helping the University to reach and maintain this position. This year we celebrate 10 years of the Society and the difference they have made through their generous donations.
THE SCHOFIELD SOCIETY ANNUAL DINNER 3 DECEMBER 2020 As we’re celebrating 10 years of the Society, it will be our biggest event yet. Sign up as a member and join us for the celebrations later in the year.
Since 2010, Schofield Society members have donated more than £10 million towards a variety of initiatives and projects including: Hardship-based scholarships for more than 150 students Outstanding facilities such as STEMLab and the library Over 500 sports scholarships for students – many of whom have gone on to become world-leading athletes International development projects in over 30 countries including Zambia, Uganda, South Africa, India and Sri Lanka
Join us and celebrate As we mark this special anniversary, we hope that you will join us on this journey to secure a bright future for the students of the University, just as Schofield did all those years ago. As a member of the Society you will receive: • updates on the impact of your generosity from the Vice-Chancellor • invitations to special events, including the annual Schofield Society Dinner • exclusive tours of campus facilities and invitations to events associated with your donation • a dedicated point of contact within the Philanthropy team • an exclusive Society pin badge • engagement opportunities with a network of philanthropic alumni and friends. Membership is recognised at four levels of support, starting at £1,000 a year – or £84 per month. As Loughborough University is an exempt charity, all donations are tax deductible, so as a top rate taxpayer the actual cost to you could be the equivalent of £1.90 a day. In joining the Society, you will become part of a community of donors from a wide range of professions, who have fond memories of their Loughborough experience. For further information please contact Rachel Third on 01509 223543 or email giving@lboro.ac.uk.
WHY YOUR GIFT MATTERS
Regular giving matters Giving isn’t just about making a donation, it’s about making a difference. All gifts, no matter what the amount or how often you choose to donate, make a huge difference to the University and its students. We are honoured to receive any donation from anyone willing to support Loughborough and vow to ensure 100% of donations benefit our causes. Over 500 supporters in 2018/19 committed to give regularly to a variety of projects and initiatives across the University.
THANKS TO THOSE WHO GIVE REGULARLY LAST YEAR OVER 500 PEOPLE MADE REGULAR DONATIONS OF BETWEEN £1 AND £75 PER MONTH
THIS TOTALLED MORE THAN £70,000 ACROSS THE YEAR
THIS FUNDING IS EQUIVALENT TO:
70 ENABLING 70 UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS FROM LOW-INCOME BACKGROUNDS TO START THEIR JOURNEY AT LOUGHBOROUGH WITH A £1,000 SCHOLARSHIP
33
14 AWARDING 14 STUDENT-LED BUSINESSES £5,000 START-UP GRANTS TO LAUNCH THEIR OWN BUSINESSES THROUGH THE LOUGHBOROUGH ENTERPRISE NETWORK
SUPPORTING 33 ATHLETES WITH DISABILITIES WITH A BURSARY OF £1,000 A YEAR THROUGHOUT THEIR DEGREE
Why not become a regular donor today? Becoming a regular donor allows you to have a significant impact on the future of Loughborough University, in a way that is more financially manageable. We greatly appreciate your generosity and if you have supported us with a one-off donation this year, we would love to welcome you as a regular Loughborough supporter. For more information please visit www.lboro.ac.uk/giving.
17
18 A SIMPLE THANK YOU
A simple thank you Leaving a legacy in your Will is an incredibly special gift to give, and a very humbling one to receive. We’d like to thank all that have pledged to leave a charitable donation to the University in their Will. Thank you for showing that you believe in the future of the University and thank you in advance for the impact your generosity will have. Although they may not realise it at this time, the biggest thanks will come from those who benefit.
Leaving a legacy to look out for others
Did you know? £1 in every £10 that Loughborough University received in charitable donations in 2018-19 came from gifts in Wills
You can leave 1% of your estate to a charitable cause and 99% to your family
Over the last year, several donations left to the University in Wills were granted to Nightline, the University’s confidential, non-advisory listening service that is run by student volunteers for students in need. Most alumni will no doubt have many fond memories of their time at Loughborough, but for some students, stress and anxiety can affect their time at university. Whether it be the transition into university life or personal circumstances that arise, there are times when people need to talk. The funding was used to raise awareness, and recruit and train over 88 volunteers for the service, who went on to volunteer over 3,920 hours, across more than 130 shifts, taking over 530 calls.
Every donation counts Gifts left in Wills to Loughborough University are exempt from inheritance tax due to the University’s charitable status as an Exempt Charity in UK law
It doesn’t matter how much you choose to leave – every gift makes a difference. Much of the incredible work that is made possible here at the University is thanks to several individuals that have donated to Loughborough in their Wills. You could choose to leave 1% of your estate to a charitable cause and 99% to your family. That 1% could support a student in need, it could contribute to creating something iconic on campus or it could ensure that Loughborough continues to deliver the best student experience to the future Loughborough family.
Find out more If you would like to find out more about leaving a gift to Loughborough in your Will please contact Hayley Boereboom, Legacy Manager on 01509 228685 or email h.boereboom@lboro.ac.uk You can also find more information online at www.lboro.ac.uk/giving/legacy Please note: We respect your privacy and recognise that your Will is completely personal to you. You don’t have to tell us if you leave a gift to Loughborough University, but if you do we’ll keep this information private and confidential and it means that we can keep you updated on our plans and ambitions for the future.
DONATION FORM
Donation form I would like to make a difference to... Scholarships
My contact details Full name: Address:
Sport Global health and wellbeing research The Loughborough student experience Where the need is greatest
Email:
Telephone:
If you provide an email or phone number we will use these to let you know the latest news from Loughborough including upcoming events, the impact of your donation and further ways you can make a difference.
Regular gift
Single gift
I would like to make a regular gift to Loughborough University of
I would like to make a single gift to Loughborough University £20 £50 £100 Other £______________ of
£10
£25
Monthly
£50
Other £_________________
Quarterly
I enclose a cheque made payable to Loughborough University
Annually
starting on 1st of _________________ Instructions to your bank or building society to pay by Direct Debit Bank details Name of bank:
OR I wish to make my gift by: MasterCard
Maestro / Switch
CAF
Visa
Credit / Debit / CAF card number: Address: Expiry date: Postcode:
/
Issue number:
Signature:
Name(s) of account holder(s): Bank or building society account number:
Bank sort code:
Instructions to bank or building society: Please pay Loughborough University Direct Debits from the account detailed in this instruction subject to the safeguards assured by the Direct Debit Guarantee. I understand that this instruction may remain with Loughborough University and if so, details will be passed electronically to my bank or building society.
Originators identification number: 682772 Signature of account holder: Date:
I do not want my name to appear on the list of supporters of Loughborough University I would like you to send me information on how I can make a donation to Loughborough University in my Will I have already included Loughborough University in my Will
Boost the value of your donation by 25p for every £1 you donate, at no extra cost to you, through Gift Aid. I would like this and all future donations to be as eligible for Gift Aid, until I notify you otherwise. Signature
Date
To qualify for Gift Aid, what you pay in income tax must at least equal the amount of tax that all the charity or Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs) you donate to will reclaim on your gifts for that tax year. Other taxes such as VAT and Council Tax do not qualify. A full home address is required for Gift Aid purposes.
THANK YOU Your support is much appreciated Please return this form to: Freepost RTUU-AAGE-KAXB Philanthropy, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, LE11 3TU Loughborough University is an Exempt Charity.
19
20 XXXXXXXXXXX
Donation form — “No one can help their household income or their background, so by giving students the chance to flourish and develop during their time at university, it’s probably one of the best gifts anyone could ever give.” Laura BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science Scholarship recipient —
To contact us Email: giving@lboro.ac.uk Online: www.lboro.ac.uk/giving Philanthropy & Alumni Relations Hazlerigg Building Loughborough University Leicestershire LE11 3TU
Your data Update your details at www.lboro.ac.uk/alumni/update-details
The contact details you provide will be recorded securely on the University’s alumni database. We will communicate with you about your gift, alumni events, benefits, the latest news and ways in which you may wish to support the University in the future. If you do not wish to receive any of our communications or wish to amend your communication preferences please email giving@lboro.ac.uk. Find our full privacy policy at www.lboro.ac.uk/alumni/privacy
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Making a difference Donor statistics for 2018/19
£2.5
5,175
£264,000
TOTAL DONATED
TOTAL NUMBER OF DONATIONS
GIFTS IN WILLS
MILLION
GLOBAL DONORS
20
NUMBER OF COUNTRIES OUR DONORS ARE FROM
977
NUMBER OF ALUMNI DONORS WORLDWIDE
SCHOOLS WITH MOST DONORS 1. SCIENCE 2. SPORT, EXERCISE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
HALLS WITH MOST DONORS 1. HAZLERIGG/ RUTLAND HALL
3. SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS
2. ELVYN RICHARDS HALL
4. WOLFSON SCHOOL OF MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL AND MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING
3. TELFORD HALL
5. SOCIAL, POLITICAL AND GEOGRAPHICAL SCIENCE
4. CAYLEY HALL 5. FARADAY HALL
WHERE YOUR DONATION MADE A DIFFERENCE
100%
OF DONATIONS WENT DIRECTLY TO OUR CAUSES
OVER
£19,000 SUPPORTED PROJECTS & INITIATIVES RELATING TO GLOBAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING
41%
OF GIFTS PROVIDED NEW UNDERGRADUATE & POSTGRADUATE SCHOLARSHIPS
17%
OF GIFTS WERE USED FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE
10%
OF GIFTS SUPPORTED SPORT
32%
CONTRIBUTED TOWARDS OTHER AREAS INCLUDING FACILITIES & CAMPUS DEVELOPMENT
21
YOUR GIFT MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Philanthropy Hazlerigg Building Loughborough University Leicestershire LE11 3TU
www.lboro.ac.uk/giving
77596/CPS/MAR20
T: +44 (0)1509 222222 E: giving@lboro.ac.uk