The cost of living can be a worry for anyone, but we know that managing your money as a student can come with its own challenges. Whether it’s keeping on top of your weekly food shop, paying bills in a private rented home, or simply making your money stretch a little further, we know that finances can have a big impact on student life.

That’s why, from Monday 12 October, we’re bringing you Cost of Living Week at Surrey Students’ Union. Cost of Living Week is a campaign run by the Community Zone. Throughout the week, we’ll be sharing practical support, advice and activities designed to help you make your money go further, while making sure you know what support is available if you’re struggling.

What’s happening?

We’re putting together a programme of activities across the week, with a focus on things that you can actually take away and use, not just information on a screen.

Community Hub Cost of Living Stall

Come and visit the Community Hub during the week to pick up a Student Survival Bag, packed with some everyday essentials and little treats to help make your week that bit easier. You’ll also be able to find out more about the financial and practical support available through the University and Students’ Union, with information on where you can go if you’re worried about money or need a little extra help.

Keep an eye out on our website and socials to see when this is happening, at The Community Hub!

Community Hub Kilo Sale

Fancy refreshing your wardrobe without spending a fortune? Head down to the Community Hub for our Kilo Sale, where you can pick up pre-loved clothes and pay by weight. It’s a great chance to find some new-to-you pieces for less, while giving clothes a second life and keeping them out of landfill.

Join us on Wednesday 14th October from 14:00-17:00 at the Community Hub.

Union Creates: Piggy Bank Decorating

Fancy getting creative while giving your savings a new home? Join us for a Union Creates piggy bank decorating session during Cost of Living Week! Come along, decorate your own piggy bank and start thinking about what you're saving towards, whether that's a big goal, a rainy day fund, or just making it through the month with a little extra in the bank.

Join us on Monday 12th October from 18:30-20:30 at Manor Park Social.

Practical money support

We’ll also be working with the Student Money Team to bring you practical advice and activities around managing your money as a student. Rather than telling you to simply “budget better”, we want to focus on the real-life things that can make a difference to your day-to-day finances and make sure you know where to go for support when you need it.

And more!

We’re still finalising some of the activities taking place during Cost of Living Week, so keep an eye on our social media and [LINK TO WHAT’S ON / EVENTS PAGE] for the full programme as it’s announced.

You don't have to be struggling to access support

Cost of Living Week isn't just for students who are experiencing financial hardship.

Sometimes, making your money go further is simply about picking up a useful skill, finding out about support before you need it, or discovering ways to cut down your everyday spending.

And if you are worried about money, you don't have to wait until things become a crisis before asking for help.

Our Cost of Living Week activities are a chance to find out what's available, ask questions and get support in a way that's friendly, accessible and judgement-free.

Keep an eye out for more information about Cost of Living Week and come along to anything that catches your eye!