South Yorkshire students call for more financial support through the pandemic
It's claimed some South Yorkshire students are facing a "financial crisis"
Last updated 3rd Feb 2021
Government ministers have announced a £50 million support package for students who are facing the financial pressures of the pandemic.
But, a parliamentary committee says that figure is not enough, claiming it works out at just £25 per student.
The chair of the group, Sheffield Central MP Paul Blomfield, believes the government needs to go much further. He said: "Students have had their education disrupted and because so many of them fund their studies on the back of jobs in the hospitality and retail sector, which have disappeared, they are facing financial crisis."
The government says its handed out £70 million for hardship in this financial year alone - on top of 256 million pounds of student premium.
One University of Sheffield student says the financial situation has been tough on lots of them. Orla, who is studying French, Spanish and Politics, says the impact on students has not been recognised. She said: "Everything has been turned upside down. A lot of people have spoken to me and have said they are in really, really difficult financial situations, and have applied for relief funds and not been given anything.
"It is really hard for some students. A lot of people are struggling."
Orla is also questioning the cost of course fees, claiming she is not getting value for money. She said: "The government has clearly noticed tere is a problem. I would like to see an announcement on why they cannot lower the fees we are paying.
"We just want to know why we are still paying £9250 - or, in some cases, even more than that."
Universities Minister Michelle Donelan said:
"This continues to be an incredibly difficult and challenging time for our students, and I am hugely grateful to all the university staff working hard to prioritise their health, wellbeing and learning during this pandemic.
"The additional £50 million that we are announcing today will mean we have distributed £70m for hardship in this financial year alone – on top of the £256m of government-funded student premium which universities can use for student support this academic year.
"This additional support will provide real, tangible help for those students struggling financially as a result of the pandemic.
"We will continue to prioritise a full return to education as soon possible, in line with public health advice. I am also working with universities and professional bodies to ensure students can graduate as planned."