Cost-of-living support at Birmingham Newman University
Last Updated: June 5th 2025
Cost-of-living support
at Birmingham Newman University
We understand that rising living costs are affecting many in our community.
Whether you’re managing food, energy, or travel expenses, we’re here to help with practical advice and meaningful support—on campus and beyond.
Support at Birmingham Newman
Course-specific funding
For eligible healthcare students (e.g. Nursing, OT, Paramedics, Physiotherapy):
- £5,000 Training Grant per year
- £1,000 Special Subject Payment (for some courses)
- £2,000 Parental Support Grant
- Travel and accommodation reimbursement
- Up to £3,000 Exceptional Support Fund for hardship
- Note: Foundation years and NHS Bursary recipients are not eligible.
For postgraduate teacher training with QTS:
- Bursaries from £5,000 to £29,000 (DfE-funded)
- Scholarships up to £31,000 (subject-specific)
- Based on degree classification and subject area
- Evidence of Student Finance eligibility*
*Demonstration of eligibility will be required by evidence of an approved student loan application. This evidence is required even if the student chooses not to draw down the loan from the funder. DfE funded bursaries will not be paid to you without this evidence.
- £9,000 for final-year students in maths or physics with QTS
- £18,000 total for students on QTS + master’s degree routes
- For students competing at national/international level
- Free sports kit for UG sports students
Financial advice & guidance
Our Student Money Advisor offers year-round support on budgeting, benefits, debt, and hardship funds.
- Email: studentsuccess@newman.ac.uk
- Apply for help with living or course-related costs like childcare, travel, or books
- Crisis help for essential food and supplies – contact Student Success
- Crisis help – Day saver
- Free Breakfast – Weekdays from 8am in the Aquinas Room (toast, porridge, tea & coffee)
- £2.50 Hot Lunch – Weekdays 2pm – 4pm in Bistro32 (eat-in only)
- Community Pantry – Free food and toiletries in the Aquinas Room
- Warm Study Spaces – Library open daily 7:30am – midnight, with charging points
- Free Sanitary Products – Available in key toilets across campus
- Sports & Fitness Access – Free for residents; £15/month for other students
Student Ambassador Roles
- Flexible, on-campus work at £14.12/hour (as of May 2025)
Careers Support
- CV checks, interview prep, and job listings via My Careers portal
- Email alerts for new jobs and employability updates
You’re not alone. If you’re struggling or just want to explore your options, don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re here to support you.
Part-Time Work
Working part-time can help cover costs and build valuable experience. For help finding flexible roles, contact our Careers Service.
External support for managing the cost of living
We know that navigating financial challenges can be overwhelming. Here’s a round-up of external support and practical tips to help you manage your money more effectively.
Some full-time students may be eligible for benefits—especially those with children or disabilities.
Our Student Money Advisor can help you understand your entitlements and how your student loan may affect them.
Useful guides:
- Turn2Us – Students and Benefits
- Disability Rights UK – Disability Benefits
- GOV.UK – Universal Credit and Students
- MoneyHelper – Pregnancy and Baby Benefits
- Birmingham Household Support Fund – Help with food and essentials
- Sandwell Local Welfare Scheme – Emergency support for eligible residents
- Check if you’re eligible for the £400 energy discount—landlords must pass this on if energy is included in rent
- Avoid electric heaters where possible—gas central heating is more cost-effective
- Use timers and thermostats wisely
- Ask landlords to draught-proof your home
- Turn off unused appliances and lights
- Keep doors closed in unheated rooms
- Set thermostats between 18°C and 21°C
More tips:
- Plan meals and shop with a list
- Choose supermarket/value brands
- Look for reduced items and end-of-day discounts
- Use apps like Too Good To Go and Olio for discounted food
- Try community food initiatives like Incredible Surplus
Low-cost recipe sites:
- Cooking on a Bootstrap – Jack Monroe
- Save the Student – Student Recipes
- Nosh for Students
- Apply for a TOTUM card, UNiDAYS, or Student Beans for discounts
- Save on subscriptions like Amazon and Spotify
- 10% off Postgraduate courses for *Alumni (2025/26)
*course exclusions apply
- Apply for student bus passes or a 16–25 Railcard for 1/3 off train fares
- Walk or cycle to campus—secure bike storage and showers are available
Need help of support?
- Student finance
- Welfare benefit entitlements
- Dealing with debt
- Childcare
- Information and support for Care Leavers and Estranged students