Hardship funds available for students in need

A large portion of hardship funds available to students in Edinburgh have not been allocated, despite overwhelming demand last year and despite widespread delays with student loans.

Just 51 percent of the hardship pot has been allocated at Edinburgh Napier University, whilst only 68 percent has been distributed at the University of Edinburgh this academic year.

Robert Lawrie, the Head of Scholarships & Student Finance at Edinburgh University, told The Journal that the number of applications received this academic session is down compared to last year;

“With a further five months of this session remaining, and with a good number of applications currently being processed by staff, we are on track to spend our full allocation.

"While the total spend is slightly down on this time last year, we have noticed that applications are coming in a couple of weeks later than last year.”

Meanwhile, Student Affairs at Edinburgh Napier report a 16 percent increase in the number of applications compared to the same period last year.

Accommodation and living costs seem to be the main reasons for applying with many Edinburgh students being unable to find a job, having part-time working hours reduced or being made redundant.

Each year the Scottish government provides discretionary funds to further and higher education institutions across Scotland to support students who are facing financial difficulties related to their studies.

Nearly £12 million was allocated to Scottish universities this academic year with an estimated £1.5 million contributing to the discretionary funds for Edinburgh students. Over 1000 students have received help to date.

One student at Edinburgh Napier, who has successfully applied for a £100 for living expenses spoke to The Journal. “I was very happy to receive it because I really need the money. Obviously, I’d like to get more, but it was a nice boost”, said Lauren, who asked for her surname not to be printed.

Click on the following links for more information on hardship funding;

Edinburgh University

Edinburgh Napier University

ECA

Heriot-Watt

Queen Margaret University