Dealing with money issues can be daunting but we want to reassure you that there is help and advice available. Falling into debt is a very common experience among students but you should not feel ashamed. Whether you speak to one of our student advisors, the University, or seek help from external sources, it's important to know you aren't alone.
Dealing with money issues can be daunting but we want to reassure you that there is help and advice available.
Debt can be any amount you owe to a person or an organisation. We understand that you might have fallen into debt because of increased or unexpected expenses, bad spending habits, or low income. This is a very common experience among students and you should not feel ashamed.
We know that while some of you might get help financially from family, maintenance loans, or your job income, sometimes this simply isn’t enough. Your finances may be affected by things that aren't within your control. Now more than ever with the concern of the cost of living crisis, we believe it is important to be clued up about some reliable sources of financial advice relating to debt. Below are some amazing organisations which provide trust-worthy advice for debt support.
StepChange provides free and impartial advice in relation to budgeting, income, and debts.
Save the Student has a brilliant article on managing debt when you're at university. They explain in detail what debts can look like and the ins and outs of good and bad debt.
The Citizens Advice Bureau has shared loads of information on its website about debt that relates to housing, court monetary sanctions, as well as handling debt repayment plans.
Shelter has a range of online housing-related debt support systems for any individual, whether you are a student or not.
YOUR PERSONAL BANK
We tend to forget, but financial advisors at your bank are another great way to get great advice on handling your finances and managing debt. They can provide you with information on loan schemes and debt management plans that would be suitable for you, given your financial status.
SUPPORT AT ROYAL HOLLOWAY
The wonderful Financial Wellbeing Team on campus is ready to discuss your financial situation and provide you with relevant guidance. Where they cannot fully support you, they will signpost you to other institutions that would be better suited to help you find a solution. You can contact them at moneymatters@royalholloway.ac.uk.
We also encourage you to contact the Advice Centre if you are unsure about where to start when searching for financial advice. We do not have financial advisors but we can point you in the right direction.
Speak to an advisor
Our Advice Centre is a free, independent, and confidential service for all students here at Royal Holloway. Our friendly, experienced, and professional staff will provide a listening ear and offer general and specialist advice. We’re here to support you with a whole range of issues, big and small, and if we’re not the best people to help you with a particular issue, we’ll point you in the right direction.
Our advisors hold drop-ins on Zoom every Tuesday and Thursday during term time. You can find more information on our events calendar on how to join the virtual drop-ins.
Email us at advice@su.rhul.ac.uk with any questions or to ask for a different meeting time.