Exeter Students Declare Cost of Living Emergency
Many people may assume otherwise, but students aren’t immune to the cost-of-living crisis either. A recent survey has shown that there are fears that the increase in the costs of living is making university life more difficult for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.
University calls for increased government help
Universities UK, the student advocacy group, is urging the government to do more to support students during the cost-of-living crisis. Almost three quarters of undergraduates and postgraduates say their university could do more to help them financially, according to a survey by StudentDiscount UK.
One in three students reported their mental health was being impacted negatively by the cost of living. Inflation is squeezing their budgets and forcing students to make some difficult choices. However, several universities are now offering financial aid and bursary help. Some of the measures also include daily meal deals, free hot meals, and discounts on non-perishable goods.
In addition, most universities have a student advice service that can offer tips and guidance on managing finances. Many have extended study and social spaces to accommodate more students. Other measures include free or discounted transport and sanitary products.
How should students prepare?
Increasingly, students are not always able to afford everything they want for their studies, particularly those from poorer backgrounds.
One of the most important things to do is prepare a budget before you start. This will help you avoid overspending or falling into debt.
The University of Exeter is stepping up its game to help students cope with the rising cost of living. It is investing £3 million in support and will also add £870,000 to its Winter Support Bursary.
There are also several schemes to help students manage their money better. For example, the Student Finance Workshop offers free advice and resources.
The University of Plymouth is also working with leading debt-advice charity Step Change. They offer a student budget calculator to give you an idea of what you can afford.
Utility bills also adversely affect student budgets. With gas and electricity prices going up, these are mostly out of student’s direct control. However, a little-known way to cut your living costs is to shop around for student discounts on broadband.
By switching provider, it has been reported that you could save up to £30 a month for the average student flat share. The best place to start is a price comparison website for broadband, such as MoneySupermarket, BroadbandDeals or Uswitch.
University defends existing approach
Elsewhere on campus, the University of Exeter has a longstanding commitment to service excellence, and a recent statement of community involvement has sparked a bit of a spirited debate. A large part of the debate centres on the quality of the content and whether the community is aware of the initiative.
However, the community's response to the consultation was remarkably positive. Its most recent efforts have been focused on providing evidence-based, up-to-date information about the medical and social care of its patients.
The university is also in the business of educating its community about health and well-being using socially relevant initiatives.
In addition to providing a plethora of knowledge sharing opportunities, the university has partnered with its local housing and social enterprises to implement the above-mentioned housing for health initiatives.
Local council declares a cost-of-living emergency
Along the coast, Eastbourne council has declared a cost-of-living emergency and is offering £250,000 to the town's Foodbank in the hope that they can help residents cope with soaring energy bills and food prices. The council has also announced an initiative to help vulnerable residents and to support the town's many charity organisations.
The cost-of-living crisis has impacted millions of households across the UK, with rising fuel and food costs pushing families to the edge. Its impact has been felt most in the poorest areas.
Last week, Eastbourne BC declared a 'cost of living emergency', and offered a grant of £250,000 to the town's Foodbank. They are also planning to hold an emergency cost of living summit to discuss the challenges facing local families and residents.
About the University of Exeter
The University of Exeter is one of the top 50 universities in the world. It has over 25,000 students from 130 countries. This includes 1 in 10 students from North and South America. They have excellent facilities in science, humanities, engineering and medicine.
University of Exeter is part of the Russell Group of UK universities. It has been recognised for its work in addressing barriers to higher education.
