Available on the free MyBedsLife app, the new 24/7 hub gives students quick and easy access to cost of living support all in one place. It features general and financial support information, contact information for on-campus services and useful guides, such as where to find cheap meals on campus and how to make the most out of convenient – and sometimes little-known – student discounts. It also houses a number of handy tools, like a budget calculator for managing money and spending habits.

The development of this dedicated hub comes as new research by the Sutton Trust recently revealed that nearly two-thirds (63%) of students are spending less on food and essentials as a result of the rising cost of living, so the University wanted to make sure students could easily find and access all the support they might need in one place, wherever they are.

Dr Julie Brunton, Pro Vice Chancellor for Education & Student Experience, said: “We’re really pleased with the Cost of Living Hub initiatives which have been designed to help students who need our help during this extremely difficult time, no matter their circumstances. We pride ourselves on being a University that helps students not just academically but also personally, and this is yet another great example of that work. I encourage students to take advantage of the hub and the support we offer, to find new inventive ways to save money and look after their wellbeing while studying.”

As well as ways to make money stretch further, the hub provides information about dedicated online and in-person services, such as mental wellbeing counselling and care leaver support. It also signposts students to where they can locate warm places to study on and around campus which can help save on peak-time heating and electricity costs in their accommodation. Recommended places include the spacious libraries found at both the Luton and Bedford campuses which offer a comfortable and calming environment with free Wi-Fi, perfect for studying seven days a week.

For students who are struggling to afford technology to complete coursework and research, the University is also offering a free laptop loan scheme for students who otherwise wouldn't be able to study off-campus.

First year Journalism student, Amia Clarke, said: “The Cost of Living Hub has been really useful because of the variety of information it has concerning how the University can help us tackle any financial difficulties. I like that there’s a real sense of inclusivity – there are bountiful options and advice available for all students, which makes us feel like we’re all in this together.”

Joe Green, a third year Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation student, commented: “I think the Cost of Living Hub is really good! I like that most of the information is just there with one click and it doesn’t redirect you to multiple links as that can be a bit time-consuming depending on where you are and what your signal is like! The information is nice and simple too which always helps.”

In recognition of the financial challenges currently faced by students, the UK Government has granted the University additional hardship funding to provide extra support to students who need it most. Bedfordshire’s Cost of Living Hardship Fund is available for all UK and international students who are facing financial difficulties.

Ruki Heritage, Director of Student Experience, added: “As well as providing practical advice and budget management, we are very aware that some students also need financial support at this time. The University has set up the Cost of Living Hardship Fund to specifically support students who are struggling to pay their rent, electricity or food bills at this time, and our specialist Student Money Advice team also provide free budgeting workshops, guidance and other monetary advice for students.”

As part of the University’s cost of living support, the Students’ Union is trialling a Community Pantry offering short term support to students experiencing extenuating circumstances and unforeseen hardship. Currently available to students at the Luton campus, those in need are able to collect food bags of up to eight items including milk, soup, pasta and rice, as well as baby food, toiletries and sanitary products.

Beds SU Co-President, Laura Tamara, was part of the driving force behind this new initiative. She commented: “It’s important to look out for each other in these challenging times. Circumstances can change rapidly and there is no shame in asking for help, we want to ensure everyone has what they need.”

The University is continuously looking for more ways to provide cost of living support to students and the Cost of Living Hub will be regularly updated with the latest help and support information. All University of Bedfordshire students can download the MyBedsLife app via the Apple or Google Play stores to explore the hub, as well as staying up to date with teaching timetables, events and the latest University news.