Students Struggle to Meet Living Costs, Working Excessive Hours
Students across the UK are struggling to meet living costs while studying, with many working excessive hours and parents contributing significantly to support them. The current maintenance support from the government falls short, leaving a substantial gap in covering essential expenses.
Students in private rented accommodations require an average of £366 per week for a decent standard of living. To cover these costs without parental support, students may need to work between 14 to 23 hours per week, exceeding universities' recommended maximum of 15 hours during term time.
Annual living costs are estimated at £21,774 for students based in London and £18,632 outside the capital. The cost of a 'minimum basket of goods and services' for a student in England is £13,865 per year. Parents in England may need to contribute at least £13,865 per year to cover their children's university living costs.
The government maintenance allowance covers only up to 65% of living costs, leaving a gap of at least 35%. Parents in Wales may need to contribute £6,482 per year, in Scotland £10,232, and in Northern Ireland £13,548. Students in Wales may need to work 14 hours per week, in Scotland 16 hours, and in Northern Ireland 23 hours to make up the shortfall.
The government is urged to raise the level of maintenance support and be honest with parents about their expected contributions. Students and parents alike are feeling the strain of escalating living costs, with many students working excessive hours and parents contributing significantly to help their children through university.
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