Students at the University of Manchester will receive a one-off payment to help with the cost of living crisis. Full-time students will receive £170 and part-time students £85, paid into their bank accounts.
As reported by the Manchester Evening News, the university said the rollout for payments was expected before the Christmas break and also announced financial support for its staff. It has already offered cheaper food options, free microwave and hot water facilities, free showers and free period products.
In a statement, the university said: "In recognition of the significant challenges faced by students over rising costs, the University of Manchester is dedicating £9m to providing further student support, building on an initial programme of wellbeing and financial assistance provided together with the Students' Union.
"The latest package of support represents a commitment of over £7million. Further targeted support in 2023 for those most in need will be announced in due course and bring the total of committed student support to £9million."
It builds on existing financial support available, including increases to the university's Cost of Living Support Fund, and providing grants of up to £2,000 to students who are struggling, with an extra £2,000 for postgraduate research students who receive University of Manchester-funded stipends. Library fines have been scrapped and free eBooks provided.
The Students' Union, meanwhile, is also helping to provide free and discounted access to sports and recreation and has put on study nights with free food.
Sam Bronheim, union affairs officer at the Students' Union, said: "We have valued collaborating with the university on this project and are glad they have listened to our ideas. With action like this, we hope students feel that, through the Students' Union, their needs have not only been heard but met by the university."
Professor April McMahon, vice president for teaching, learning and students, said: "The cost of living crisis is a major concern for our students, especially at this time of year. I'm so delighted that, working closely with the Students' Union, we've been able to offer this payment.
