Winchester Student Union Cost of Living Hub
Here at Winchester Student Union, our Officers have been acutely aware since they came into role of the effects the Cost of Living crisis would have on our student body. Since then, we have been researching, monitoring and liaising with other Unions as to how best to support our students. This is such a broad issue which needs to be tackled in numerous different ways.
On a wider scale, we have been discussing with local government on how to support students in Winchester, as well as monitoring how our Prime Minister's Government are dealing with the crisis nationally. At a local level, we have reviewed what the University and Union already do, and what more could be done for our students. Having lobbied and worked with the University over the past year for tangible actions, our hope is that you should see a range of provisions from the University to support you, and we also have been working as a Union to come up with steps we can take to support you.
We want you to be able to access all the relevant information and support available to you during this crisis, so we have created this comprehensive Cost of Living Hub, which we will continue to develop. Below, you will find all the resources, financial support, tips, discounts and intiatives that we are putting in place, together with the support being provided by the University. Although we have been worked closely with the University, we know there is still more to be done and this, we hope, will be shaped by your voice and your priorities. We want to hear from you directly so you can let us know how best to support you as thing evolve and change - keep in contact with us!
The rising cost of living is a national problem that requires national action, and one that cannot be solved overnight, but please use our webpage as a platform to find all the latest ways that we at the University and Union can support you. Please get in contact if you need any advice or support.
We stand with you whilst you navigate this crisis and will endeavour to get the best possible outcomes for students.
How we're currently helping you:
Spaces on Campus
There are a number of spaces on campus that can offer you warm and comfortable places to relax or study.
King Alfred Quarter
- The Terrace Bar (Level 2 - King Alfred Centre) is open every weekday from 08.30, and also offers Costa Coffee. Inside, the Lounge is the perfect place to catch up with others, offering plenty of tables and booths.
- The Food Hall (Level 3 - King Alfred Centre) is open every day, offering tables and chairs and a bustling atmosphere. Food is served from 08.00 -14.30 / 16.30 - 18.30 (Mon-Fri), and 12.00-14.30 / 17.00-19.00 (Sat/Sun) and caters to all tastes, with a range of hot and cold items, as well as plant-based and allergen free dishes.
- The Learning Cafe (Level 4 - King Alfred Centre) provides an environment for students and staff to relax and study. Open 07.30 - 16.00 (Mon-Fri) with 24/7 access during the winter months.
- Cyber Italia (Kenneth Kettle Building) is a social learning space offering a full barista service, including customisable pizzas and a click and collect service. It is open from 08.30-20.00 (Mon-Fri), and 10.00-20.00 (Sat/Sun).
- The Martial Rose Library has a range of facilities, including group study areas, study rooms, quiet study zones, and individual workstations. Opening hours are 08.00 - midnight (Mon-Thurs), 08.00-20.00 (Fri), 12.00-18.00 (Sat), and 12.00-midnight (Sun).
- Please be aware that space in the Martial Rose Library will be limited whilst it's refurbishment is underway.
West Downs Quarter
- Cafe
- The West Downs Library features two floors with spaces for study and sitting, blankets have been provided for your warmth and are available year round (please note these are to only be used within the library).
It is open 24/7 (you just need your physical ID card for access).
Community Food Hub
Free4AllUOW helps the university reduce food waste and provide surplus food for students. You can find out what is in stock in these fridges, as well as get updates on new items by adding the free4alluow on your snapchat account.
The Free4All fridges can be found at:
- Level 4 of the King Alfred Centre, next to the vending machine in the Learning Cafe
- Cyber Italia (Kenneth Kettle Building), opposite the hatch (on the right)
- Level 1 of the West Downs Centre, in the Food Hall, next to Cafe Life
Please remember to behave responsibly and act fairly when taking food from the fridge
Food on Campus Discounts
The University's Food on Campus team have several things in place to help you save money whilst still enjoying food and drink across campus.
- £2.50 Food Bowls: The Food Hall (Level 3 - King Alfred Centre) and the WDC Cafe will be offering a value for money food bowl for anyone in search of a quick, inexpensive, but nutritious meal. If it's a plant-based or vegetarian meal, you'll also benefit from the Kale Yeah promotion.
- Also running is the 'Budget Breakfast' - stop by between 8-11am for this!
- Also running is the 'Budget Breakfast' - stop by between 8-11am for this!
- WINPAY: Your University ID card is the key to edible credit which helps you save money at all Food on Campus outlets. Scan the app or top up your account to earn loyalty points, receive 3% back on each purchase and enjoy free food and drink vouchers.
- Free Drinks: Purchase hot drinks in one of the University's coffee bars and earn loyalty stamps by tapping your student ID card on the card reader when you pay. Collect nine stamps, and receive your 10th drink for free. All the coffee bars are able to provide 'e -stamps' when you present your ID cards, WINpay account on your phone, etc.. - you do not need to purchase using WINpay.
- Kale Yeah promotion: This has two different schemes, one for snacks and one for a more substantial meal. Buy 6 vegan/vegetarian dishes and you will get the 7th one free. The free once can be meat/fish based, however the scheme encourages students and staff to adopt a more flexitarian approach to their food.
Microwaves on Campus
There are microwaves available in the Food Hall (Level 3 - King Alfred Centre), Kenneth Kettle Building (KKB), and West Downs Food Hall so that you can re-heat food during the day, rather than having to buy something.
'The Bookcase' Community Food Pantry
Winchester Student Union are proud to present 'The Bookcase', a place where students can pick up free packaged foods, and toiletries (including: shampoo, shower gel, toothpaste, toilet roll, and more!). You are also more than welcome to use this as a a space to donate food and toiletries for others in need - so if you have anything rattling around in cupboards, or are simply in a giving mood, feel free to pop any items into our offices!
You will be able to find the Bookcase outside the SU Offices (Level 3 - King Alfred Centre), near to our Advice Centre Freebie Bin.
Aldi Shuttle Bus
The Aldi Shuttle Bus is back! The Aldi Shuttle Bus is a scheme designed to support students to access big shops, out of hours, at low cost. The walk to Aldi in Winchester can be a long one depending on where you live, so why not grab a lift with us?
The Shuttle will be running every other Tuesday during term time. Pick up is at 17:30 outside the Student Union Shop (level 1 of the King Alfred Centre). It will go directly to Aldi and drop you back either in West Downs Student Village, Stanmore Lane (top and bottom), Cromwell Road, or Main Campus.
You can book a space through our What's On page. You will receive email confirmation of your booking and meet time after you have booked.
The Breakfast Club - New!
Join us every other Tuesday morning in the Terrace Bar from 08:00-10:00 for the Breakfast Club! We're providing free breakfast items such as cereal, pastries, hot drinks and fruit juice to all students who may need it. No need to book, just come along!
For specific dates, check out the "What's on" tab.
Cost of Living Tuesdays - New!
Each week we are running either Aldi Shuttle Bus or Breakfast Club on a Tuesday. Come along to reduce spending on your meals!
For specific dates, check out the "What's on" tab.
'The Bookcase' Community Food Pantry
Winchester Student Union are proud to present 'The Bookcase', a place where students can pick up free packaged foods, and toiletries (including: shampoo, shower gel, toothpaste, toilet roll, and more!). You are also more than welcome to use this as a a space to donate food and toiletries for others in need - so if you have anything rattling around in cupboards, or are simply in a giving mood, feel free to pop any items into our offices!
You will be able to find the Bookcase outside the SU Offices (Level 3 - King Alfred Centre), near to our Advice Centre Freebie Bin.
Costa Coffee Discount
Travel and Transport
The University has recently announced that it will not pass on cost increases on parking and park and ride permits, and will meet the additional payments by freezing costs for this academic year.
The University has also provided a document detailing discounts and ways of saving money on travel and transport to and from the University for which students are eligible. You can find out which apply for you by accessing this document (may require sign-in to the intranet).
Student Union's Guide To Winchester
In recognition of the ongoing impact of the recent increases in cost of living for students, we've put together our very own handy guide to getting the most out of the city when you're on a budget. Within its pages you'll find key infromation on student discounts, excellent money saving tips and comprehensive advice on how to travel cheaply and quickly around Winchester.
You can find a digital version embedded below, download your own copy here, or even pop by our offices (L3 - KAC) for a hard copy.
You can also check out the University's guide to Cost of Living in Winchester for guidance on student housing, and other costs.
Advice Centre Freebie Bin
Winchester Student Union is tackling period poverty on campus and promoting student welfare by offering free period products, condoms, pregnancy tests, panic alarms, and drug testing kits to students who need them - all available for free to all students as part of our Advice Centre (subject to availability).
You can visit our Freebie Bin on weekdays (9am - 4pm) during term time, located by the Student Union offices on Level 3 of the King Alfred Centre.
If you're unable to access the Freebie Bin on campus, click on this link to complete a short form, and we will do our very best to deliver period products to you within 3 working days. The products will be put through your letter box in a sealed paper bag with your full name on. (Please note, this service is dependent on the availability of staff and resources).
Support & Advice Services
If you are in need of support or advice at any point in your University career, there are a range of services on hand that you can consult:
Student Union
The Winchester Student Union Advice Centre can be accessed by all current University of Winchester students. We aim to support students to make their own informed choices by offering free, impartial advice and information, on a range of matters.
We operate independently from the University and specialise in supporting students with academic issues. We can also advise student on issues such as money worries, wellbeing concerns, or problems with housing.
We also have our own Student Union Advisor, who is available by appointment, to discuss any matters of concern.
University
The University's Student Support team offer a wide range of services, including specific guidance on Students and Money
The Students and Money team is able to offer information and advice on student loans, bursaries and scholarships, and provide guidance and support in cases of financial hardship.
Student Life Advisers provide a listening ear and support those who experience personal issues affecting study, struggles with workload and university life, course concerns, and a range of other issues. To book an appointment you can either speak to a member of the Student Support and Success team in person (Winton Building), or book online (intranet link).
External Providers
- Trussell Trust : For help finding your local foodbank
- Citizens Advice: For free, impartial advice on managing bills, housing, citizenship, benefits, and more
- Help for Households : A government-provided source of support and advice, covering household costs, energy bills, income support, and employment advice.
Additional Funding
As students at Winchester, and members of the Student Union, there is a range of additional funding on offer to you to support you during your studies.
University Funds
- Winchester Learning Support Fund (formerly Student Support Fund) : This fund is available for full and part-time current home (UK) students experiencing exceptional, unforeseen hardship, particularly final year students, single parents, students with dependents and students with additional needs. For more information, and details on the application process, head to the Student Support page on the University Intranet (you'll find information under: Students and Money -> Budgeting, Rent, Deposits and Financial Hardship) Alternatively, click on this link (intranet page).
- The Students and Money Team have increased the Winchester Learning Support Fund for this academic year!
- Scholarships, Bursaries, and Awards: The University offers a range of financial support based on academic achievement, personal circumstances, and household income. Their website gives information on the funding available to undergraduates, postgraduates, and international students.
- Placement Travel Expenses: Undergraduate and postgraduate students on teaching placements are able to claim for travel expenses. Speak to your Programme Leader to find out more.
Student Union Funds
- Activities and Participation Fund : Any currently enrolled student at the University of Winchester can apply for funding to support them in accessing the extra-curricular activities provided by the Student Union, this includes membership fees to our sports teams, societies, and representational netowrks, purchase of kit and/or equipment, and costs for taking part.
External Funds
- NHS Learning Support Fund : Students on Nursing, Physiotherapy, Dietetics and Occupational Therapy courses can apply for this fund, which may include a training grant of £5,000 per year, parental support for £2,000 per year, money back on excess travel and temporary accommodation while on placement. There is also an 'Exceptional Support Fund' for students experiencing financial hardship.
- Get Into Teaching Scholarships and Bursaries: Teaching bursaries are available for PGCE students who specialise in certain key subjects (click on the link to find out more).
- Energy Support Scheme Alternative Funding: Offers £400.00 off energy bills per household. Further infomration can be found on this link.
Digital Access Scheme
Students who are unable to engage with their course due to a lack of digital access and financial hardship may apply to the University to access a long-term loan laptop for the duration of the academy year.
For further information, and to apply, please contact Students and Money.
Short-term Loans
Any student can access one of the self-service laptop loan cabinets, all you need is your University ID card. The maximum loan period for these laptops is 24 hours, you can find out more here (intranet link), or by speaking to a member of the Library Services team.
The cabinets can be found at the following locations:
- Martial Rose Library
- Kenneth Kettle Building (KKB)
- St Alphege Mezzanine
- Medecroft
- Winchester Business School
- West Downs Centre Library
Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) Support
DSA is a non-means tested support fund, aimed at providing student with needs access to specialist support. This could include Specialist Study Skills support, Specialist Mentoring and Assistive Technology and training to use it. For more information, click here (intranet link).
Maintenance Loan Report
This year your President Charlotte has been working with other Presidents across the country to campaign and research into making maintenance loans monthly. This report highlights a summary of the research as well as other information regarding maintenance loans. If this is something you agree with please do sign the below petitions to have this brought up as a conversation in government.
- The Report
- Change Student Finance England payments to be monthly rather than termly:
- Petition 1 - Change.Org
- Petition 2 - Parliment.uk
Joining the National Campaign
We are not the only Students' Union who are campaigning on this issue for students. We've signed the NUS petition around the Cost of Living Crisis to show support for the NUS campaign. You can also sign this here. We've also met with other officers nationally and are continuing conversations between SUs on how we can best support students.
Blogs
Our Advice Centre regularly posts Cost of Living Spotlights to offer support and ideas throughout the crisis. You can find them listed below or keep an eye on our social media for new ones.
Low-Cost Shops and Meal Planning
What is a |Cost of Living Crisis?
Have Your Say:
