The University of Warwick has announced a £3.5 million support package to help students and staff through the cost-of-living crisis this winter.
The support package includes delivering help to thousands of students from the lowest-income families and one-off payments to staff.
Vice-Chancellor and President of Warwick University, Stuart Croft, said the institution wants to do what it can to help “those most in need this winter.”
The university will also be issuing an “open invite” for local residents to use the Arts Centre as a place to stay warm during the day.
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Warwick’s £3.5 million support package
The announcement will bring the overall financial support available to Warwick students to more than £45 million a year for 2022/23, and the additional funds will be paid through the existing bursary schemes targeted at those on lower incomes. This means that students will automatically receive the money without having to apply for it.
Currently, one in ten students at the university receives a bursary and they will all benefit from a 10% increase in payments, which will be paid from December, Warwick Uni said.
Postgraduate research students will also see increased support from the university. Those receiving the minimum stipend will see a 10% rise in their allowance.
President of the Students’ Union, Will Brewer, said: “The support package includes delivering help to thousands of students from the lowest-income families and one-off payments to staff.
“We welcome this response from the University, and look forward to continue working with the University Cost-of-Living Working Group to ensure that no students are left behind.”
“We know it’s a difficult time for colleagues on lower salary bands”
While the university is already a national living wage employer, it will be offering extra support for staff on lower salary bands. In January, 3,911 staff members will receive a cost-of-living payment of up to £550.
Those who are struggling with changes in personal circumstances or “unexpected costs” will be able to apply for an interest-free loan, as well as access a free online personal finance platform which will provide tips, budgeting tools, and “expert advice.”
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