Students, staff and local community get their money’s worth from UON’s Cost of Living Fair

The University of Northampton’s Waterside Campus was a hive of activity earlier this week (Tuesday 17 January) as more than 250 students, staff and members of the public came to hunt out a bargain and seek valuable financial advice at the University’s Cost of Living Fair.

Hosted by UON’s Financial Guidance and Residential Life teams in collaboration with the UON Cost of Living Task Force, dozens of vendors were on hand to provide valuable advice, guidance and support on money management, budgeting, careers, wellbeing and mental health support, university funding, as well as a wealth of travel, energy, and money saving tips.

Vendors in attendance included Money Wellness, NatWest’s Money Management Team, Re-Solv, UON’s International Student Support Team, Food Aid Far Cotton, FareShare Midlands, Northamptonshire Rape Crisis, FISH Northampton, UON Mental Health First Aiders, and Anglian Water, who were on hand to provide practical advice about possible tariff changes and ways to save money on water bills.

Students, staff and external visitors welcomed the opportunity to chat with the University Travel Team about ways to save money on travel, including discounts on Voi Scooters, as well as take a moment to relax with Therapy Dogs Lottie the Yorkiepoo and Daisy the Labrador.

Students and staff also dropped by UON’s Swap Shop to support sustainable fashion, with a wide variety of adult, teen and children’s clothing looking for a new home and new lease of life in exchange of unwanted items.

The University’s Financial Guidance Team also welcomed the opportunity to support the Samaritan’s ‘Brew Monday’ mental health support campaign with a homemade bake sale, selling more than 150 slices of cake and raising a grand total of £82 for the charity.

These sweet treats wouldn’t be complete without a hot cup of coffee or tea, which is where the University’s Residential Life team saved the day, handing out nearly 100 free hot drinks to attendees, as well as more than 150 free meal vouchers (redeemable at UON’s food hall).

Students who attended yesterday’s fair commented on the “really helpful information and great free food” they received and remarked: “I really loved that the staff were so conversational. The free food voucher really helped me out getting my lunch today too!”

Those wishing they had attended yesterday’s event – fear not! A second fair will be taking place this evening (Thursday 19 January, 6-8pm) which is open to everyone, including members of the local community as well as staff and students.

Vendors will be returning to provide financial advice and support, with the Swap Shop and prize draw returning by popular demand. Free hot food will also be offered to all staff and students on arrival.

Keep up to date with UON events taking place to support with the cost of living via Twitter @UniNorthants.