Hello, we know many of you have questions about finances and how the current situation could affect them, so we wanted to write a blog to signpost the different options available.  As this situation is under such unique circumstances and is likely to affect you as students, we understand that this is going to potentially have financial ramifications.

If you are concerned about your rent and you live in on campus accommodation, you should have received an email from the UEA Accommodation Office, however in light of the changing situation UEA are regularly updating their FAQs which can be found here. If you live in accommodation and are yet to communicate your plans with them, please email them at [email protected]. We are also working with UEA to encourage our local purpose build student accommodation providers (Crown Place…) to put a similar provision in place. We support the lobbying efforts that the National Union of Students are asking regarding rents to the government, you can find out more about what they are here.

The university has released communications about the work they are doing to expand support for students. The following link will guide you to the main Covid 19 page that UEA is updating regularly for students. In the welfare section specifically, there is further guidance on how to seek support for the university hardship funds and applying for a computer if you are in need. We have been told by staff in student services, that the more information you provide with these forms, the quicker advisors will be able to process this information and get back to you.

The National Union of Students have been working with Student Finance England this week to confirm that your third payment will arrive on time despite the changes in the way you are learning, you can read more about this here. If your circumstances change, get in touch with your funding provider as you may be able to fill in a significant change of circumstances form (CO1), meaning your payments could change during the academic year.

Additionally, don’t forget, at uea(su)  we have a free, independent and impartial advice service who you can access online and get in touch with either by looking at the website or emailing them. They can support you with any academic or housing advice.

Finally, if you have any financial concerns or worries that haven’t been touched on above, or any other academic concerns related to the situation we find ourselves in with Covid 19, please get in touch and send Amelia, Alicia or myself an email at [email protected]/ [email protected] / [email protected]. We are working with the university to ensure that you have all of the information and answers you need right now!