University of Derby addresses cost-of-living crisis for new students
Derby has officially been recognised as one of the most affordable cities to live in
Last updated 18th Aug 2023
The University of Derby are addressing the cost-of-living crisis for their new cohort of students.
On Thursday, college students across the UK received their grades. 22% of A levels in East Midlands were awarded an A or A star.
Earlier this year, a study by the Office for National Statistics showed more than 9 in 10 (92%) higher education students reported that their cost of living has increased compared with last year, similar to students in early November 2022 (91%).
They also revealed more than 9 in 10 (91%) students were either somewhat or very worried about the rising cost of living, the same as in early November 2022.
The University of Derby state the Midlands is one of the cheapest regions in the UK to live as a student, and that Derby has officially been recognised as one of the most affordable cities to live in.
Professor Keith McLay Provost (Learning & Teaching) at the University said: "Students collecting their exam results this Thursday have experienced the pandemic, teachers’ strikes and the cost-of-living crisis, and many are worried about leaving home and making friends.
“We want every student to get the best start at university. To help them settle in and make friends we are covering the cost of Freshers.”
Professor Keith McLay said they are also offering a 'free freshers wristband': "If they come to University that means that they will have free access to a whole raft of social and academic activities to allow them to come in, and get settled, and find their feet. That's us responding to the cost-of-living crisis in that way."