University leaders complete 125-mile trek to tackle regional educational inequality

Posted on Wednesday 29 April 2026

Mary Haworth, Director of Philanthropic Partnerships and Alumni, and Elke Versmessen, a regional educational equity advocate, arrived at The Place in York on Friday afternoon. The funds raised to date are already enough to support four children through their entire journey at the University’s community learning centres – the equivalent of one child at each of the four centres across the region.

The pair set out from IntoUniversity Grimsby on Monday, 20 April, trekking through Hull and Bridlington to raise vital funds for the University’s network of community learning centres, which provide dedicated support to thousands of young people across the region.

Postcode lottery

The route took the duo from the rugged North Lincolnshire coast and the exposed Humber Estuary to the steep climbs of the Yorkshire Wolds. The challenge was designed to highlight the “postcode lottery” facing young people in the North, where 34% of children live in poverty compared to 28% in the rest of England.

Research shows that children facing disadvantage in Yorkshire and the Humber start school roughly five months behind their peers. This gap doubles to 10 months by the end of primary school and reaches nearly two years by the end of secondary school. 

By supporting community learning centres, the University of York, is working with its partners at the University of Hull and the charity IntoUniversity, alongside schools and families, to provide the academic support and mentoring required to break this cycle of inequality.

Life-changing

Mary Haworth said: "As a child of the North, I feel a deep responsibility to ensure the next generation has the support they need to thrive. The money we raise will go directly toward providing life-changing mentoring and employability skills. 

“We are so grateful for the generosity of the community in supporting this cause and helping to provide the funds needed to expand the impact of our centres. This trek was about showing our commitment to these communities and the powerful local networks we are building together.”

Elke Versmessen, said: “Crossing the finish line in York was powerful, but it’s not the end of the journey. The real work carries on long after our feet have had a rest. 

“We walked for 125 miles, but we also listened, observed, explored and built connections along the way. We’ve seen firsthand the difference these centres make across Grimsby, Hull, Bridlington and York.

“Now it’s about turning that momentum into action, building ever stronger networks with local employers, businesses, organisations and individuals who can provide the lasting support our children and young people, their families, Centre staff and schools need.”

Support

The funds raised will support the University’s partnership with the charity IntoUniversity and the University of Hull. Together, they have launched centres in Hull, Bridlington, and Grimsby to support children as young as seven. The University also established The Place in Westfield, York, which supports 800 children and families annually.

It costs approximately £3,400 to support one child through their entire journey at a centre. Donations remain open as the University continues its mission to ensure every young person in the region can meet their potential.