LEAD SOCIAL CHANGE
Empowering the next generation of social change-makers
The Social Impact Lab is passionate about supporting you in tackling real-world challenges, gaining practical skills, and creating ventures that empower you to become the next generation of social change-makers. We offer a programme of opportunities to help you gain the knowledge and resources necessary to have a positive impact in society.
Tackling the UN Sustainable Development Goals
At the Social Impact Lab, we define social impact as any commitment to tackling one or more of the 17 UN sustainable Development Goals. Whether you are interested in a career working in the Not-for-profit sector or have an idea for a community-based project or social enterprise, our mission is to equip you with the knowledge, skills and experience to help you make a tangible difference to the issues that matter to you.
The Social Impact Lab is based at the Junction in the Sir James Matthews Building and runs parallel to our student enterprise activities. We provide seed funding and 1:1 support to grow your ideas, practical experience through internships and volunteering, support for student societies, and a range of talks, workshops and networking opportunities to help grow your understanding.
Interested in becoming a social change-maker? Book a 1:1 appointment with our team today, or contact us at [email protected]
BE A SOCIAL CHANGE-MAKER
Social Changemaker Pathway
Do you care deeply about social or environmental issues and want to take action? Whether you’re dreaming of launching a campaign, starting a social enterprise, or running a project that makes a difference – this pathway is for you. It’s designed to help you turn passion into practical impact, with support, tools, and opportunities tailored to your goals.
Social Entrepreneurs
You’re driven to build something that combines purpose with sustainability. You’ve got an idea for a business that tackles a social or environmental problem, and you want support to shape it. This pathway will help you explore social business models, develop your idea, and pitch with confidence.
Third Sector Changemakers
You see yourself working in a charity, NGO, or advocacy organisation – leading community projects, influencing policy, or creating systemic change. This pathway will help you build the practical skills needed to work in the third sector, including campaigning, fundraising, and stakeholder engagement.
Real-world Researchers
You’re studying a subject related to social change – like health, education, psychology, or environmental science – and want to apply what you’re learning in a practical setting. This pathway gives you the chance to connect theory with action, through hands-on projects and real-world problem solving.
Social Project Leaders
You have a cause you care about and want to take action now – whether that’s running a campaign, organising a community event, or launching a one-off initiative. This pathway will support you with project planning, access to funding, and the tools to make your idea a reality.
