Student accommodation - kitchen

Cost-of-living support

We understand that rising living costs are affecting many in our community.

Whether you’re managing food, energy, or travel expenses, we’re here to help with practical advice and meaningful support—on campus and beyond.

Support at Birmingham Newman

Course-specific funding

NHS Learning Support Fund (LSF)

For eligible healthcare students (e.g. Nursing, OT, Paramedics, Physiotherapy):

  • £5,000 Training Grant per year
  • £1,000 Special Subject Payment (for some courses)
  • £2,000 Parental Support Grant
  • Travel and accommodation reimbursement
  • Up to £3,000 Exceptional Support Fund for hardship
    • Note: Foundation years and NHS Bursary recipients are not eligible.
PGCE Bursaries & Scholarships

For postgraduate teacher training with QTS:

  • Bursaries from £5,000 to £29,000 (DfE-funded)
  • Scholarships up to £31,000 (subject-specific)
  • Based on degree classification and subject area
  • Evidence of Student Finance eligibility*

*Demonstration of eligibility will be required by evidence of an approved student loan application. This evidence is required even if the student chooses not to draw down the loan from the funder. DfE funded bursaries will not be paid to you without this evidence.

Sports Bursaries
  • For students competing at national/international level
  • Free sports kit for UG sports students
Undergraduate Teaching Bursaries
  • £9,000 for final-year students in maths or physics with QTS
  • £18,000 total for students on QTS + master’s degree routes

Financial advice & guidance

Our Student Money Advisor offers year-round support on budgeting, benefits, debt, and hardship funds.

Email: studentsuccess@newman.ac.uk

Birmingham Newman Support Fund
  • Apply for help with living or course-related costs like childcare, travel, or books
Emergency Support

Access short-term, crisis support for food, essentials, and bus travel to campus. Contact studentsuccess@newman.ac.uk for further information

Careers & Part-Time Work

Student Ambassador Roles

  • Flexible, on-campus work at £14.12/hour (as of May 2025)

Careers Support

  • CV checks, interview prep, and job listings via My Careers portal
  • Email alerts for new jobs and employability updates

You’re not alone. If you’re struggling or just want to explore your options, don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re here to support you.

Part-Time Work

Working part-time can help cover costs and build valuable experience. For help finding flexible roles, contact our Careers Service.

On-Campus Support
  • Free Breakfast – Weekdays from 8am in the Aquinas Room (toast, porridge, tea & coffee)
  • £2.50 Hot Lunch – Weekdays 2pm – 4pm in Bistro32 (eat-in only)
  • Community Pantry – Free food and toiletries in the Aquinas Room
  • Warm Study Spaces – Library open daily 7:30am – midnight, with charging points
  • Free Sanitary Products – Available in key toilets across campus
  • Sports & Fitness Access – Free for residents; £15/month for other students

External support

We know that navigating financial challenges can be overwhelming. Here’s a round-up of external support and practical tips to help you manage your money more effectively.

Budgeting

Budgeting is an essential skill that helps you manage your money, avoid unnecessary debt, and feel more in control during university. By tracking what you earn and spend, you can prioritise essentials, plan ahead, and build habits that support your financial wellbeing now and in the future.

Council Tax

Full-time students do not normally pay Council Tax and can apply for an exemption.

You are a full-time student if you are on a university course lasting for at least one academic year, for at least 24 weeks per year and you are required to study for at least 21 hours per week during term time.

In Birmingham, Council Tax is payable to Birmingham City Council. You can request a letter from the university at the link below to provide to your council to be considered for a council tax discount / exemption depending on your circumstances.

Crisis Support
Food Costs
  • Plan meals and shop with a list
  • Choose supermarket/value brands
  • Look for reduced items and end-of-day discounts
  • Use apps like Too Good To Go and Olio for discounted food
  • Try community food initiatives like Incredible Surplus

Low-cost recipe sites

Student Discounts
  • Apply for a TOTUM cardUNiDAYS, or Student Beans for discounts
  • Save on subscriptions like Amazon and Spotify
  • 20% off Postgraduate *courses for Alumni ( 2025/26 and 2026/27)

*course exclusions apply

Travel
Utility Bills
  • Check if you’re eligible for the £400 energy discount—landlords must pass this on if energy is included in rent
  • Avoid electric heaters where possible—gas central heating is more cost-effective
  • Use timers and thermostats wisely
  • Ask landlords to draught-proof your home
  • Turn off unused appliances and lights
  • Keep doors closed in unheated rooms
  • Set thermostats between 18°C and 21°C

More tips

For energy saving tips and support with your utility bills, see the links below;

Welfare Benefits

Some full-time students may be eligible for benefits—especially those with children or disabilities.

Our Student Money Advisor can help you understand your entitlements and how your student loan may affect them.

Useful guides

Need help or support?

  • Student Finance
  • Welfare benefit entitlements
  • Dealing with debt
  • Childcare
  • Information and support for Care Leavers and Estranged students

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