These non-repayable grants are in response to the cost of living crisis and form part of a £6m package of support from the University, targeting students most in need this academic term.
In a survey earlier this year, 60% of York students said they were worried about their finances, with 11% stating that they didn’t talk to anyone about money or financial worries.
The Household Energy Grant will support around 2,200 York-based student households living in off-campus student accommodation.
The University has created a dedicated online hub, offering practical steps and advice, alongside cost of living advice sharing discounts and advice on financial literacy and support.
In addition, the University and the Students’ Union is working with organisations across the City of York to broker casual employment opportunities for students, and with the City Council, to maximise student access to any support that is available to them via government measures.
The University of York’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Charlie Jeffery, said:
“The cost of living is one of the biggest challenges facing our students as they arrive to start or resume their studies this term, and we know many are extremely concerned about how they will pay the bills.
“Even though energy prices are now capped, they will still be around twice the level of last year. Government support measures will have some impact, but many of our students face a very challenging situation.
“Whilst many of our students are accommodated on campus, the Household Energy Grants are aimed at supporting those students who live off campus and who face considerable financial pressure as energy bills rise.
“Further initiatives are planned over the coming months, including pressing the government to do more for students”, Professor Jeffery added.
Those student households applying must meet certain criteria, including being exempt from Council Tax, not having bills included in rent, and being registered in active study. Further details on our support for students during the cost of living crisis can be found here.