Help and support

You’re not in this alone.

We understand how worrying the Cost-of-Living crisis can be for students. Whilst concerns around money and finances can be stressful, we’re here to support you to make sure you have the best student experience possible at UoB. 

help and support

Here, you can find out the range of financial support and guidance available for you while you’re studying with us at Birmingham.  

Remember, if you feel like you need to talk to someone about anything that may be worrying you, feel free to check out our Time to Talk? intranet page for a full list of support and services at UoB. We're here for you.

Financial Support

Guild of Students 

The Guild of Students is your Student Union at UoB. If you’re a student at the University of Birmingham, then you’re automatically a member of the Guild of Students. Depending on your circumstances, they may be able to offer you short-term support such as food vouchers. 

  • Community Pantry - the brand-new Community Pantry supports those in crisis by providing a free one-off food parcel to those who need to access this service. 

  • Guild Advice - a free, impartial, and confidential advice service for students at the University of Birmingham. Keep an eye out for key updates and advice about the Cost-of-Living. Alternatively, you can visit their Money Matters support page.

  • Student Mentor Scheme - a peer-to-peer support service for students in UoB & partner accommodation. They offer support with budgeting, looking for part-time work and signposting to other services. 

  • The Guild Hardship Fund - the Hardship Fund is available to students who are experiencing a short-term, unexpected financial difficulty, subject to availability of funds. The University has worked with the Guild to provide an additional £10,000 for emergency financial support, recognising the current economic conditions.   

Student Services 

Funding, Graduation & Awards (FGA) provides information and advice about financial support available to students. We have an undergraduate funding database and a postgraduate funding database that contain details of funding opportunities available to support your studies. You can filter for opportunities relevant to your level of study, subject and country of domicile. Eligibility and application processes will vary depending on the particular scholarship or award, so please read the full award details carefully before you make your application.  

We also administer the Student Support Fund, which is provided by the University to help students who have genuine and unavoidable financial difficulties.  

Wellbeing Support

Coping with financial worries can have a negative impact on our mental health. If at any point you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or down about the cost of living, we want you to know that you don’t struggle on your own. We’re absolutely here to help, and you can always contact someone if you need support. 

  • Wellbeing Officers - each School has their own Wellbeing Officer(s) who are able to provide practical and emotional support. 

  • UB Heard - a 24/7 confidential listening and support service for all registered students. 

  • Pause @UoB - drop-in sessions for you to talk about feelings and real life. 

  • Time to Talk? – visit our Time to Talk? page for a full list of resources and support services available. 

Further Resources


  • Blackbullion - provides guides and learning resources to help students manage their finances. 

  • Save The Student - gives money saving tips and highlights where to find the best deals. 

  • National Debtline - offers support to avoid and manage debt. 

  • The Money Charity - publishes articles and runs workshops on understanding your money. 

  • Money Saving Expert - contains great information about how to save and maximise your finances.  

 

Colleges

Professional Services