Talk Money Week is a national campaign led by the Money and Pensions Service, which encourages open conversations about money. We’re joining in on this year’s theme to start the conversation and help students take control of their finances.
Why Talk About Money?
Talking about money helps build financial confidence and resilience.
Research shows that people who talk about money have stronger personal relationships, feel less anxious, make better and less risky financial decisions, and are more in control.
Whether you’re budgeting for rent, juggling part-time work, or navigating student loans, money matters can feel overwhelming, but talking about it can make a real difference, help you make more informed decisions and focus more on enjoying university life!
Let’s get Budgeting
Creating a budget helps you track your income and spending, so you know what you have to spend on essentials, and what’s left for all those extra things you want to buy or save!
Start by listing all your areas of income, which may include:
- Student loans and grants
- Scholarships and bursaries
- Part-time work or freelance income
- Savings or family support
- Social security benefits (if eligible)
- Trust funds and sponsorships
Top Tip: Don’t forget to talk to the team at SU Advice- you might be missing out on support you didn’t know existed!
Check out these resources to help you out:
- Save the Student Budgeting Guide
- Budget planner | Free online budget planning tool | MoneyHelper
- Student Budget Calculator | Whatuni UK
- UCAS Student Finance And Support Available
Ways to Save on Outgoings
Avail of Student Discounts
- There are loads of student discounts available, so it can be tough to know where to start… luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you and made a handy blog which you can check out here!
Shopping & Essentials Tips
- Sign up for loyalty cards in stores like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Boots and Superdrug to get discounts and build points.
- Buy in bulk or do a big shop with housemates to split the costs.
- Think about shopping at more budget-friendly supermarkets and buy own-brand products instead of brand name alternatives.
- Use more sustainable ways to shop for new fashion and homewares such as local charity shops or even the SU Swap Shop! Here you can swap pre-loved clothes and items to refresh your wardrobe or spruce up your digs. Check it out on the ground floor of the SU.
Food & Cooking
- Stop by The Pantry, your free refill station. Here you can pick up free cereals, grains, pasta, noodles, pulses, herbs, spices and fresh fruit and veg on Mondays (subject to availability). You can find the Pantry on the ground floor of the SU.
- Spend some time cooking at home and batch cook and freeze meals.
- Save some money by attending free food events such as the SU’s free meals. Watch out for the dates these will be happening by following our Instagram account for our weekly what’s on at the Union posts.
Utilities & Bills
- Ask to share/split costs of Wi-Fi and streaming subscriptions with housemates.
- Use energy-efficient appliances and switch off devices when not in use.
- Take advantage of heated study spaces on campus like the McClay Library and Students’ Union.
Travel & Transport
- Sign up and use student travel cards like Translink’s yLink and book tickets in advance for cheaper fares.
- Walk or cycle (bonus of saving money while exercising) or split the petrol money and carpool with friends when possible.
Financial Support from Queen’s University
Did you know that the University may be able to provide some additional discretionary financial support?
NI and GB students who are in financial difficulties and have already exhausted all other sources of funding may apply for the Student Support Fund. Each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis. You can read further information on applying to the Fund by following the link above or by contacting SU Advice.
Start the Money Talks Today
Adjusting to student life is challenging enough without added financial pressure. Talking about money doesn’t have to be awkward.
Whether it’s with a friend, family member, or adviser, talking about money will help you:
- Discover new resources
- Feel less alone
- Make informed financial decisions
- Build financial resilience
SU Advice is here to help you with any student money queries or concerns you may have.
Our trained advisers are on hand to provide information and answer questions you may have on money-related matters: this includes eligibility to student finance and social security benefits, the financial implications of repeating a year, changing course or withdrawing, and applying to the University’s discretionary funds.
We also offer advice and guidance on avoiding financial scams and fraud.
You can drop by to speak with an adviser during our drop in advice sessions held every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 11.30am to 2pm or you can contact the team at su.advice@qub.ac.uk for help and guidance.
