National Express has launched a half a million pound foundation which will provide bursaries to help local students attend further and higher education and support local community groups working with young people.

Shadow Minister for Higher Education Shabana Mahmood MP has joined the foundation’s Board of Trustees and joined National Express’ Anthony Vigor in a call to West Midlands colleges, universities and community groups to apply for this new charitable funding.

The foundation has been established after National Express promised to provide it with at least £500,000 of funding over the next 5 years.

The National Express Foundation will award £10,000 per annum to several local colleges and universities to enable them to provide individuals in challenging personal or financial situations with a bursary towards funding their living costs whilst a student.

The Foundation will also provide up to £30,000 a year of funding to local community groups working with young people.

National Express, Birmingham’s biggest, and one of the West Midland’s largest, private sector employers, started developing the Foundation following the civil disturbances across the country last summer.

Shabana Mahmood MP said: “I am pleased to be joining the Board of Trustees for the National Express Foundation, particularly because the focus of the Foundation’s work is on helping students, young people and community groups who are in need of support. This sort of support is much needed in Birmingham and I look forward to celebrating the many successes that lie ahead

Anthony Vigor, Director of Policy and External Affairs for National Express Group, said: “As Birmingham’s largest private employer we take our local responsibilities seriously. That’s why we are delighted to launch this foundation and provide support to local students and community groups. I encourage as many local colleges, universities and community groups as possible to apply.”