UCU response to MPs' social mobility report

Responding to a report from the all-party parliamentary group on social mobility, UCU said investment across the board was required if students from all backgrounds were to fulfil their potential.

The report highlights the disparities between students' chances of getting to university based on where they live.

UCU head of policy Matt Waddup said: 'Those with the greatest access to qualifications tend to be healthier, wealthier and more active citizens. Yet, as this report shows, where you live largely determines your chances of educational success.

'The committee is right to call on universities to evaluate their outreach work and to target it in areas with the lowest social mobility. We agree that local authorities should receive extra funds in coldspot areas to tackle the current postcode lottery of educational success.

'What we really need is proper investment across the board in areas that have the lowest access to education and the opportunities it provides. Further education colleges must be given proper resources to deliver the education that is so vital in those areas ignored by politicians for too long.'