New partnership between Thirteen and Power of Women [Archived]

Power of Women was set up under the leadership of the late Professor Jane Turner OBE DL, in response to a national report that said Teesside was “the worst place to grow up as a girl”.

Tired of seeing women in the region constantly overlooked, Professor Turner worked with a committed group of business leaders to disrupt the status quo.

Power of Women now works with 24 schools across the area to elevate aspirations, ensure equal opportunities for all and smash gender stereotypes.

Sophie McKenna, campaign manager at Power of Women, said: “We are really pleased about the new partnership we have forged with Thirteen Housing Group, which will support us in extending the reach and impact of our primary school 'ambassador' programme.

“The idea is that by working together on our schools ambassador programme, we can continue the good work that is already being done by both organisations and maximise the positive impact it is having on improving the lives of children and young people in some of the most disadvantaged communities.

“Thirteen will be working closely with us to enhance our schools programme, through their staff’s involvement in workplace visits and participation in our workshops aimed at inspiring young minds.”

By working as the main partner for PoW’s primary schools ambassador programme, Thirteen will provide a large number of young people with the opportunity to visit their different workplaces in a bid to nurture their ambitions and challenge traditional gender roles.

Sophie said: “We’re already active in many primary schools where Thirteen provides social housing, so it makes perfect sense to collaborate in order to improve the lives and potential of young people in these areas and instil a sense of pride in their communities.

“We are looking forward to continuing the work we have already started with them in the 2024 to 2025 academic year.”

Angela Corner, head of regeneration and communities at Thirteen Group, said the organisation was “proud and delighted” to be partnering with POW on delivering its school ambassador programme, as the work ties in nicely with the organisation’s community resilience strategy.

“Thirteen’s community resilience strategy aims to create engaged, thriving and empowered places where people want to live,” she explains.

“This project is important as our younger generation play a key role in helping us achieve this.

“We know by engaging and creating school ambassadors, we will not only create great role models within the school setting, but also in the communities in which we live.

“We are looking forward to developing and supporting the programme over the next year.”