Cost of living support? We’ve got this.
The cost-of-living crisis is taking its toll on everyone. The Government are putting lots of things in place to support many different groups of people, but many people across the country are still feeling the pressure.
One group of people that have been entirely overlooked by the Government are students. Maintenance loans have not increased for a long time, and the Government proudly announced in January that they were increasing student maintenance loans by 2.8% next year – a figure dubbed “woefully inadequate” by struggling students.
This increase also does nothing to support those studying and struggling right now. The Guardian reported that ‘one in four students say they’re in danger of dropping out of university’. They also stated that nearly 50% of students have stopped or have reduced their social activities, and 63% are spending less on food and essentials.
It could be easy to catastrophise, but Marjon is a strong community and we’re here to support you. Rather than tell you about other services that are around to help you, we’re here to show you what tangible support Marjon can offer.
Marjon Provides – Community larder
The larder is open to all staff and students who may be struggling. There is a section with meal bags, containing ingredients and recipes needed for 2-4 portions with recipes from the Jack Monroe ‘Tin Can Cook’ cookbook. The larder also has a spares shelf for items not used in meal bags. There’s no need to ask or speak to anyone, you can grab and go as you need to.
Marjon Provides – Community wardrobe
The wardrobe has smart work clothing and shoes for students to wear to interviews and placements where needed.
Marjon Provides – Free table
The table is a place where people can leave helpful things they simply don’t need anymore that may be useful to someone else in our community. From cutlery and board games to stationery and books, there’s always a great range of times available.
Marjon Provides – Free Tea and toast
Every morning, Chaplains Michelle and Claire offer free tea and toast in the Snug. If you’re short of a bite to eat or need something to start your day right, pop in and help yourself.
Free sanitary products
We were one the first universities to offer free sanitary products in our campus toilets, preventing students from struggling with period poverty. You can find a range of products in each facility.
Wellness Pass
The Marjon Sports Federation Wellness Pass enables you to use the Marjon Sport & Health Centre at set times, access activities, and participate in social events, all of which are good for your mental health and wellbeing. The pass costs just £40 for a year!
No library fines
In 2020, we cancelled all library fines for overdue books. You won’t get fined unless you fail to return a book when asked.
Quality student jobs
We offer a huge range of jobs to students; all are well-paid and have flexible hours to fit around your study or family.
Funding advice
Our Student Advisors deliver budgeting workshops and can offer advice for any financial support you could be eligible for.
Free careers advice
Whilst at Marjon and after, you can access our Futures Team. They can offer career advice, help you find part or full-time jobs, and help you plan your long-term career.
If you’d like to access any of these support options, speak to your Personal Development Tutor or the Student Wellbeing and Support team.
Post authored by:
Patrick Owen
Press & Public Relations Officer
Plymouth Marjon University
