2025 has been a year of quiet achievement for the
Foundation, marking the first full year of structured charitable donations to
support our objective of helping disadvantaged young people find a route into a
career in business in the UK. Throughout the year, we have been reminded that
education has the power to change lives, and that targeted support at the right
moment can make a lasting difference.
The Foundation has forged partnerships with a number of
educational institutions to identify young people who need assistance with
their educational ambitions. In 2025, it has worked with Northumbria
University, Salford University and Manchester Metropolitan University. One
Manchester Metropolitan University scholar, Aneeqa, a first-year BSc (Hons)
Accounting and Finance student and first-generation university attendee,
reflected on the impact of this support, saying: “Your generosity inspires
me to achieve my best and motivates me to one day give back to others in the
same way.”
In addition, the Foundation has agreed support with the
University of Brighton, commencing in 2026. Commenting on this new partnership,
Catherine Robinson, Dean of the University of Brighton School of Business and
Law, said: “Our goal is simple: to ensure that every student, regardless of
their financial or personal circumstances, feels welcome and supported here.
This funding will give our future Business students the reassurance they need
to fully embrace academic life and seize every opportunity the University has
to offer.”
Meanwhile, the relationship with Plumpton College continues
to thrive, with the addition of a Bakery Apprenticeship scheme. New apprentice,
Grace, described the opportunity as “life changing… my dream job,”
adding that the apprenticeship will allow her to develop skills in a supportive
environment, with the long-term ambition of running her own business.
The Foundation’s work in the community remains central to
its mission. Support for HARC continues, the first organisation with whom the
Foundation worked, and the outcomes have been particularly rewarding. Michael,
who completed a Business Administrator Level 3 apprenticeship at HARC, achieved
a Distinction in all areas and commented that the skills gained have already
benefitted both their role and their daily life, leaving them well prepared for
the future. The Bluebells community charity was also supported by the
Foundation in 2025, with this partnership continuing into 2026. In addition,
another community charity will join the Foundation’s outreach efforts in 2026,
with agreements being initiated before the end of the year.
During 2025, upwards of 75 individuals received direct
support from the Foundation in pursuit of their educational ambitions. A
further 60 individuals were assisted with skills development or equipment, and
the Foundation directly supported six apprenticeships.
The Foundation enjoys the support of a dedicated team of
Trustees, all of whom serve on a voluntary basis. Aspects Beauty provides
clerical and logistical support, hosts fundraising events, and is a major donor
through its giving strategy based on profit generation. The Jackson-Hill family
are also active supporters and donors. As Sophie Thorp, Head of Philanthropy,
Alumni and Support Engagement at Salford University, observed, direct financial
support through scholarships can be “the difference between staying at
university and dropping out due to financial pressures,” enabling students
to focus on their studies and fully engage with university life.
As a result of steady progress, built on a strong framework
of process and the commitment of dedicated supporters, the Foundation’s
financial position remains strong. Plans to expand its work in 2026 are already
being progressed, ensuring that even more young people can be supported in the
years ahead.
The Trustees are especially grateful to all the people at
Aspects Beauty who have helped them during 2025, and to every partner,
supporter and beneficiary who continues to remind us why this work matters.
