A decade of tackling disadvantage

Welcome to Hackney, one of the most disadvantaged boroughs in the UK. Despite being on the doorstep of London's wealthy financial district, in 2002 Hackney was ranked as the worst borough for English, Math and Science education in England. Almost half of secondary school-age children had to leave the borough to find a school place. A quality education plays a vital role in helping young people achieve health, happiness and the career they want. Yet, if you were born in Hackney 20 years ago, this would likely have been a distant dream.

In response to the educational crisis in Hackney, UBS Community Affairs decided to get involved, first in 1980 by dedicating funds and subsequently extending employee volunteering to provide mentors and support for Hackney students.