The University published a report at the end of 2020 which includes case studies on how, in collaboration with others as part of the Greater Manchester region’s response, our people, expertise and civic connections have been leveraged to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

The selection of highlights, covering the first six months of the pandemic response, demonstrate what can be achieved when universities work with other organisations at pace and at scale.

On a local level, as a civic institution, we have deepened our academic, social, cultural and economic ties with Greater Manchester, engaging our region in new ways.

In supporting the NHS, we have moved beyond providing highly skilled staff and research, and have worked to produce vital PPE supplies, as well as developing networks of support that extend beyond our nursing and medical practices, into the general staff and student body.

In driving civic and public engagement, we have massively expanded outreach work, finding new and innovative partnerships to connect with the people and institutions of Greater Manchester.

In helping to revive businesses and the economy, we have sustained and grown our industrial partnerships, and in the lockdown we have expanded our supportive, advisory role for local SMEs.

In supporting youth, education, and culture, we have ensured that we have maintained the support we provide and expanded into exciting new ways to reinforce these areas online and provide platforms for local people to have their voices heard.

As we move into 2021 we’re remaining focused on helping to build back better, recover and apply learnings from the major challenges the pandemic has created.

You can read the report here.