How my University’s Financial Guidance team supported me during a challenging time.

Navigating university life can be rewarding, but also brings its own set of challenges, especially when finances come into it. Recently, I faced a significant hurdle that put a strain on my budget. I was fortunate enough to receive incredible support from both the Safeguarding team and the Financial Guidance team, which helped turn a daunting event into a more relieving experience.

Initially, I struggled to reach out for assistance, hesitant and ashamed of the financial burden I was undergoing, and more concerned about the stigma surrounding it. However, when the circumstances got worse and there was a significant gap in my rental payment, it finally persuaded me to seek help. To my surprise, the team were understanding about the situation I was in and guided me to support measures.

At first, they were unsure of how to respond to my request as it hadn’t been heard of before, however, they then started communicating with the other teams and myself. For me getting in contact about opportunities has drastically relieved the financial pressure I am under.

At the same time, they recognised that food was important and provided a £25 Morrisons Voucher. This may seem like not a lot, but it made a huge difference in me being able to batch-make food for a few weeks. Being able to buy groceries without worrying about financial pressure was a life changer. It ensured I could maintain a healthy diet, which impacted my academic learning.

I have never felt more grateful for receiving this support. Just knowing that I have opportunities to apply for support for my rent and food has created a lot more normality in my routine, and unloaded some of the pressure.

Reflecting on this experience, I’m thankful for how the university was proactive in understanding my situation and addressed it as a collective. The Teams’ original hesitancy has turned into support, a reminder that asking for help is effective in the long run.

For anyone who also faces a financial burden, the Financial Guidance team at the University of Northampton is a treasure. I encourage you to reach out and explore the resources available to you, or that may suit your current situation, and you may find, like I did, that the University is more than willing to help than you originally believe – and that support can truly make a difference.

The Financial Guidance team offer guidance and support (including discretionary funding) to students; to find out more about the team and other support services, please see our Supporting You pages.

Alex Boden

Alex Boden is a third year Esports student.