New network of major Islington employers and key organisations to reduce inequalities and help build a thriving local economy

The Islington Anchor Institution Network members play major roles in the local economy, employing more than 22,000 people, and acting as purchasers, landlords, and strategic leaders. They will use their collective influence to help shape the borough’s future.

The nine members are:

• Angel Business Improvement District
• Arsenal Football Club
• Camden & Islington NHS Foundation Trust
• Capital City College Group
• City, University of London
• Islington Council
• London Metropolitan University
• Peabody Trust
• Whittington Health NHS Trust

Representatives from each organisation met recently at Islington Town Hall to formally launch the network and confirm their commitment to working together. They signed up to a number of progressive pledges, including generating more opportunities and wealth for local people and businesses, and working towards shared net zero carbon objectives.

Cllr Santiago Bell-Bradford, Executive Member for Inclusive Economy and Jobs, said: “We’re committed to supporting local jobs and businesses, as part of our response to the cost of living emergency and our work towards a more equal Islington.

“As individual members, we all have the power to make change and improve our borough. But as a collective, we can do far more. We have more employers, more purchasing power and more ability to reduce inequality across Islington.”

“By committing to spend their money as locally and sustainably as possible, and by providing jobs for Islington residents, the organisations in the Anchor Institutions Network will keep the borough bustling with economic activity.”

Professor Lynn Dobbs, Vice-Chancellor, London Metropolitan University, said: “I am delighted and incredibly proud that London Met will be working closely with Islington Council and other local stakeholders in the Islington Anchor Institutions Network. Harnessing the talents and skills of current and future generations across the borough is fundamental to building long lasting success for the university and beyond.

“Together we will work across Islington to develop skills in communities, invest in local business, increase access and sustainability, and champion social justice issues. As community leaders we are committed to a shared ambition for Islington and embedding these values into day to day activity ensures we make a difference."

Dr Sionade Robinson, Vice-President (Enterprise, Engagement & Employability), City, University of London, said: “City is a civic university, proud of its place in the Islington community and the role we play in local life. We are an anchor institution in the borough, keen to contribute to safeguarding our shared future through wealth-building, achieving net zero and focusing on fairness. We are looking forward to accelerating this work through the Islington Anchor Institutions Network.”

Tracy Packer, Peabody’s Managing Director for NE London said: “We are committed to our social purpose, to help our customers flourish by not only providing great homes and services, but also supporting our communities. This Network is a great example of this as it allows for us to work with our partner organisations to help support our residents as they navigate the challenging times ahead. We are looking forward to working with the Network to help shape the future of Islington, creating new employment, skills and training opportunities for the local community.”

Jonathan Gardner, Director of Strategy, Development and Corporate Affairs at Whittington Health NHS Trust, said: “Whittington Health NHS Trust is a living wage employer working with Islington to advertise jobs through the Health and Social network, and explore opportunities to procure locally. We also are working with the council to mentor young people who have been in care to support them in considering roles in healthcare.”

Notes to editor

The initial pledges agreed by the Anchor Institutions Network members are as follows:

• Boost jobs and employment
• Support local businesses
• Reduce our carbon emissions