MONEY ADVICE
Managing your money
We know that the cost of living is affecting students. Talking about money can feel uncomfortable at times and it can be hard to speak up if you are struggling. Your Student Support Service is here to support you and can offer a safe space to talk about any money worries. Pop along to a Student Support drop-in for a chat or use many of the helpful tips and tools below.
PERSONAL BUDGETING
Further guidance on anything from budgeting to debt management is available via Trafford Council. You can contact their Personal Budgeting Support Advisor, Jane Jacoby on caseworkers@trafford.gov.uk, to request an appointment. All money advice appointments are confidential, so no information is shared with UA92.
HARDSHIP FUND
Students who find themselves in financial hardship, and are unable to pay for basic living expenses such as rent, bills and food, can apply to the fund for help. Financial support is awarded based on assessed level of need and not all students will be eligible. All students have access to a Student Money Guide with lots of helpful budgeting ideas, money-saving tips and helpful links.
MONEY ADVICE
Blackbullion is a money advice website which you all have access to as UA92 students. The site offers money saving tips, guidance on budgeting, understanding money, guidance on investing and tips on earning money. You can register with Blackbullion by using the link above, make sure you sign up with your UA92 email address.
MONEY SAVING TIPS
Create a realistic budget that allocates your income towards essential expenses like rent, food, bills, and transportation. Consider using a budgeting app to track your spending.
Take advantage of student discounts whenever possible. From shops and restaurants to travel and entertainment, there are many student discounts available. Look for a student NUS card to unlock these discounts.
Eating out can be expensive. Preparing meals at home is a much more budget-friendly option. Plan your meals in advance, make a shopping list, and stick to it to avoid impulse purchases at the grocery store.
Consider cheaper supermarkets like Aldi or Lidl for groceries. Utilize student discounts and loyalty cards to get the best deals.
Conserve energy by turning off lights and electronics when not in use. Take shorter showers and do laundry only when you have a full load.
Don’t always buy new textbooks. Explore used book options, borrow from libraries, or rent textbooks instead. UA92 has a digital library that you will have access to.
Explore free museum days, parks, and other budget-friendly activities in Manchester.
Many banks offer student accounts with benefits like interest-free overdrafts, which can be helpful for managing your finances. Find out more here.
Consider a part-time job to supplement your income. This can help you cover your expenses and save some money on the side. The UA92 fixed timetable is perfect to enable you to fit work around your studies.