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As a new academic year begins, we're reflecting on the positive impact we have on North East England. Part one of our two-part series explored how we're driving inclusive growth. In part two, discover how we're contributing to the cultural vibrancy of our region and enhancing the health and wellbeing of local communities.
Award-winning attractions open to all
Our visitor attractions and student-led theatre and music programmes, which are open to all, have been in the spotlight recently.
Our Botanic Garden achieved a Gold Award in the Northumbria in Bloom Competition in recognition of our commitment to community engagement, environmental responsibility and horticultural excellence.
We also had a famous visitor to the Garden, as County Durham-born television presenter Matt Baker filmed scenes for his Channel Four series 'Travels with Mum and Dad'.
Meanwhile, we're a keen supporter of wider Durham City events including the annual City Run, Fringe and Book Festivals which attract thousands of visitors.
Preserving history for future generations
It's our privilege to be joint custodians of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham Castle and Cathedral.
Recently, we completed the first phase of a long-term project to preserve and restore the Norman Chapel at Durham Castle.
A team of specialists conserved stonework and repaired or replaced elements under a strict archaeological brief to maintain the Chapel's authenticity.
Improvements were made to the accessibility, interpretation, lighting and presentation of the Chapel to open it up to even more visitors.
Meanwhile, our archaeologists and students excavated a site at Auckland Castle, County Durham, to unearth a 'lost house' built by a prominent Puritan in the 1600s.
The dig was so popular with visitors that its opening was extended to enable more of the local community to go along and view the work.
Promoting health and wellbeing
Our Chancellor Dr Fiona Hill has strong connections to North East England, hailing from Bishop Auckland, County Durham.
This summer she returned to Bishop Auckland Hospital, to further strengthen our collaborative partnership with the County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT).
The summer also saw the publication of a report led by our Department of Sociology which saw County Durham residents contribute ideas on how foodbank reliance in the County could be reduced.
Meanwhile, our health, social sciences and maths researchers have worked on projects on neurodiversity, vision loss and on producing designs for NHS clinical studies in our region.
