The cost-of-living crisis affects everyone, but as a Roehampton student, you have access to various support systems and resources to help you manage your expenses effectively. Here's what you need to know: 

Who Benefits -All Roehampton students, particularly those living on or near campus, can take advantage of the university's cost of living support initiatives. Whether you're an undergraduate, postgraduate, or international student, there are resources available to help you navigate financial challenges. 

What are the Offers - Roehampton offers a comprehensive package of support to help students manage their living costs: 

• Free Bus Service - Helps reduce transportation costs for students. This is from Putney Bridge to Wimbledon station; this will also go via ASDA. 

• Community pantry - Students will have access to free products such as hygiene products, stationery, baby products and kitchenware. This pantry is here to provide students in need of support with free essential items.  

• Roehampton Community Fridges – A community fridge is a space that brings people together to eat, connect, learn new skills and reduce food waste. These are located on two points on campus: 

• The REEF - next to Southlands Diner 

• Fincham Building - behind the David bell building and next to the library  

• Roehampton Community Box - Roehampton Community Box, designed to support residents during the cost-of-living crisis. Available to those in the SW15 area or with children in local schools, it offers a variety of groceries—including fresh produce and essentials—for a weekly contribution of £4. Students can receive over £30 worth of items. Open Wednesdays and Thursdays, time slots must be booked in advance through this link: https://bit.ly/roehamptoncommunitybox . (The sign-up link is open from 10.00 on the Friday until 2.00pm on the Monday). The service operates from the Roehampton Centre, providing a vital resource for community members facing financial challenges. For inquiries, contact communitybox@racketscubed.com. 

• Be Enriched the Food Bus Project - The Food Bus is a community initiative operated by Be Enriched, offering affordable groceries to various locations in London. This converted double-decker bus serves as a mobile food market, making stops at different sites throughout the week. The bus operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, visiting locations such as Queen Mary's Hospital, Tooting Leisure Centre, Dawson Heights Community Centre, and local primary schools. The service aims to provide accessible and affordable food options to diverse communities. Be Enriched also offers the opportunity to request Food Bus stops in neighborhoods that could benefit from the service, demonstrating their commitment to addressing food insecurity across London.  

Where we can help you - Support is available across various aspects of student life: 

• On-Campus: Free parking, secure bike storage, are available to all students 

• College Kitchens: Each college has well-equipped kitchens with microwaves, , seating and charging points. 

• Employment: The university offers temporary staff roles, including student ambassador positions and administrative work 

When does this effect you - These support systems are in place throughout the academic year.  Other services like the free bus is available as well on a academic yearly based as well as the community fridges are available year-round. 

Why we help you - We recognises the financial challenges students face and aims to provide comprehensive support to make sure that all students can focus on their studies without undue financial stress. By offering these services, the we not only helps students manage their expenses but also gains a sense of community and promotes sustainable practices.