University launches Student Hardship Appeal
Thursday, 15 October 2020
The University's Alumni & Supporter Engagement Office have launched their latest fundraising appeal, calling on alumni and donors to support students facing financial challenges as a result of COVID-19.
Many students have faced unexpected financial challenges since the pandemic began, due to job losses or changed family circumstances. Between March-July 2020 the Student Financial Support Team awarded £155,000 to students in need, which is more than would normally be awarded in a whole year.
At the beginning of a new academic year, the crisis for students is far from over as part-time employment opportunities are still rare as the effects of the pandemic continue to disrupt the economy and society.
One in four Reading students comes from a low-income household, and many may be understandably worried about the months ahead.
The Student Hardship Appeal aims to raise money to provide emergency grants to students in financial crisis; when they have run out of other options and dropping out of university is a very real possibility.
The appeal is being widely promoted to alumni and donors, including Henley Business School alumni, and we hope that colleagues across the University will share the appeal with their own networks.
If you know of a student who is struggling financially, please put them in touch with the Student Financial Support Team: studentfunding@reading.ac.uk or +44 (0) 118 378 5555.
From the week commencing 12 October students will be able to apply for the Student Support Fund, and some of the bursaries administered by the Student Financial Support Team, by going to the RISIS WebPortal and clicking on Actions, followed by Financial Support.