YOUNG PEOPLE continued Case study Supporting care leavers This year, we commissioned leading think tank the Social Market Foundation to deliver a report on the barriers facing care-experienced and estranged students with entry and success in Higher Education. Care and Learning in Higher Education features a literature review, interviews and focus groups with representatives from HE, local authorities and the charity sector and includes a set of government and HE policy recommendations. Following the publication of the report, the Social Market Foundation hosted a round table discussion with government ministers and sector representatives. Featured in the report is the recommendation that HE providers become signatories of the Care Leaver Covenant, a Department for Education initiative which provides a framework for organisations to support young care leavers across finance, health, education, employment and independent living. In line with this recommendation, we plan to sign the covenant in 2025. The full report, Care and Learning in Higher Education can be viewed here: https://www. unitegroup.com/articles/care-learning-higher- education-report HIGHER EDUCATION TRUST In 2025 we are launching ResX360, a customer relationship management system which will allows us to better support residents. The system will provide oversight of property maintenance and customer wellbeing. Built into the system is our Support to Stay framework. Through earlier intervention, we expect to see improved outcomes and success for our residents. We will continue to seek more information about our residents before they move in, so we can be responsive to their needs. EARLY CAREERS OPPORTUNITIES Providing early careers opportunities supports our commitment to making a positive difference to young people. These allow young people to gain valuable industry experience and develop their skills in a supportive environment while exploring future careers. Since 2021, we have supported 43 young people through our industrial placement and intern programme. THE UNITE GROUP PLC Sustainability Report 2024 GOVERNANCE APPROACH PROGRESS SOCIAL IMPACT LOOKING FORWARD APPENDICES *Recruitment commenced in 2021, for roles starting in Summer 2022. Programme hires since 2021* 2022 2023 2024 Industrial placement 4 6 8 Intern 8 11 6 09 GOVERNANCE APPROACH SOCIAL IMPACT LOOKING FORWARD APPENDICES PROGRESS