University Mental Health Day is a significant day throughout Universities in the UK. For many, this past year of Covid-19 and its restrictions has had a significant impact on their Mental Health. One element that can have a significant impact on an individual’s Mental Health is their financial situation.
For anyone struggling financially, be it because their Student Loan isn’t stretching far enough, they’ve faced redundancy, been placed on Furlough because of the Covid-19 Pandemic or they have been unable to find work , this can make the management of their money considerably harder. For individuals with money worries – this can make their mental health worse. It is somewhat of a vicious cycle.
Many students would usually find work within the hospitality sector such as local pubs, bars, restaurants and night clubs or within the retail sector, as this often fits alongside their studies. With these areas having been impacted massively during the Covid-19 pandemic – with some areas not expected to re-open until the middle of June, this has had a huge impact on the options available to students. In yesterday’s budget announcement, it was announced that the Furlough scheme would be extended until September, so many may face the continuation of life on 80% of their normal income but still having to balance this against their usual living costs.
However, for those who have not been on furlough and may have lost their jobs or not been able to find work at all, University life may have been very challenging over these last few months.
With so many 18-24 year olds facing a loss of employment and many of those being University students,having an understanding of how your finances can impact your Mental Health and being aware of the support available to you, is vital.
Many individuals who are experiencing difficulties with their mental health, may feel anxious and isolated (especially so within the current climate) and may find the management of their finances challenging. However, the University of Northampton have a Counselling and Mental Health Team and Financial Guidance Team who are here to provide information and support to help you. You can find out more about the Counselling and Mental Health Team here:
Find out more about University Mental Health Day here:
Please find below more information about the financial assistance and support offered by the University.
Hardship funds
The University of Northampton has recently received funding from the Office for Students (OfS) to help students who are struggling financially due to the impact of Covid-19. There are two funds currently available to students at the University of Northampton, which are:
- The Office for Students (OfS) Covid-19 Hardship Fund
- The Office for Students (OfS) Accommodation Hardship Fund
Both funds offer support of up to £500 per student and you can apply for both if you meet the eligibility criteria. To find out more and to apply for these funds, please visit the Finances section of the Student hub or click the buttons bellow.
The Financial Guidance Team also offers other funds such as the Financial Assistance Fund and EU Hardship Fund. They also have funds to support Care Leaver/Foyer/Estranged Students, a Carers Award, financial support for those who require a diagnostic assessment as part of their DSA application and a DSA top-up support (eligibility criteria apply). The team also has a partnership with the local Citizens Advice office who can offer advice and information for those with complex queries.
Student Finance – Home and EU Students*
The majority of Home and EU students at the University of Northampton receive some level of funding from Student Finance (dependent on their home region). For some, their eligibility for funding may have potentially changed with current circumstances, if you have had a change in circumstances and need to find out more about how this may impact on you, you may wish to contact your funding provider directly, please find details below:
Student Awards Agency for Scotland
Student Finance Northern Ireland
*Those whose course started within the 2020-2021 Academic Year
Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)
Students experiencing mental health difficulties may be eligible for DSA. Students experiencing mental health difficulties may not identify as disabled; however, for many experiencing mental health difficulties, it can be disabling and have an impact on your access to education.
For more information about DSA, the eligibility criteria and how to apply, please click here:
Money management and Mental Health go hand in hand. If you have any questions about any of the above funding or want to find out more email money@northampton.ac.uk.
It’s very easy to fall into bad habits. You may have the best of intentions, but if you’re having a bad day, or your friends suggest an impromptu night out or trip to the shops, you could make a spending mistake – or three – which can make you run out of cash earlier than you thought.
It’s not long now till you get your next payment of student funding – which is something to smile about. However, did you know that more and more students are being targeted by fraudsters through phishing scams? Students are more likely to be contacted just before their funding is due to be paid. But there’s no need to panic – instead keep reading for more information on phishing and how you can protect yourself online.