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Winchester Students' Union Activities Participation Fund

 

Winchester Students' Union recognises that students encounter financial barriers to taking part in our activity groups (sports teams, societies, and representational networks). We believe that participating in our activities is an important part of extra-curricular life at Winchester, enhancing both wellbeing and learning while at university, and that no student should feel like they cannot take part or are at a disadvantage due to financial hardship.

 

What is the fund?

The Participation Fund has been reshaped to better reflect the needs and accessibility of our students.

The fund is here to support students who need additional financial help to access extra-curricular opportunities provided by the Students’ Union, enriching your overall student experience.

The maximum claim amount available is £50 per person.
We believe this new structure allows the fund to support a greater number of students, making it more accessible while still providing meaningful financial assistance.

 

Eligibility - who can apply?

You are eligible to apply if you are a currently enrolled student at the University of Winchester who is facing a financial barrier to participating in one or more activity groups.

All students will be required to fill in an application form. To ensure we are supporting those most in need, students are encouraged to apply if they are in financial hardship or face additional challenges.

Please note: Winchester Students’ Union has a limited amount of funding available. While we will do our best to support as many students as possible, we cannot guarantee that every eligible application will be awarded funding, or that the full amount requested will be granted.

 

What areas can I request support from the fund for?

Examples of what you can apply for support with include (but are not limited to):

  • Full or partial cover of membership fee to a sports team, society or representational network

  • Purchase of essential specialist items to take part in an activity group, e.g. competition kit, sports hijab, etc.

  • Additional costs to taking part in an activity group as a result of a disability or additional need

  • Costs related to tournament or competition fees

  • Equipment which helps to make your activity group more inclusive and accessible

Examples of what can’t be covered by the fund include (but are not limited to):

  • Gym memberships
  • Leisurewear
  • Social events, trips, or activities not directly linked to the core function of the activity group

This fund is here to help enable your participation – if you’re unsure whether your request is eligible, feel free to get in touch before applying. We are here to help!

Selection process

The fund will be allocated on a first come, first served basis based on the need outlined in each application. When assessing applications, the panel will consider the eligibility criteria alongside the following:

  • Has the applicant provided a clear rationale for applying for support to take part in Students' Union led sports or activities?

  • Is the applicant facing circumstances that are preventing them from taking part in their chosen activity?

  • How important is receiving support so that the applicant can participate?

All applicants will receive an outcome via email. We aim to respond within 10 working days of your application during term time (please note there may be delays during holiday periods). The panel’s decision is final.

 

If your application is successful

You will be informed of the approved amount and provided with a link to the online claims form. Once your purchase has been made (membership, kit, equipment, etc.), complete the form to allow us to transfer funds to your personal bank account.

Receipts or evidence of purchase will be required as part of the claims process, to ensure the money is used as agreed.

 

Application Form

Each application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Please be aware that this is a competitive process due to limited funding. Receiving an award in a previous year does not guarantee funding again this year.

 

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