As you may be aware, many students are now facing significant financial difficulty as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic. The full impact is still unknown, and is likely to increase in the coming months.

At Roehampton, more than half of our 9,000 students are from low income backgrounds and many have no choice but to rely on part-time and even full-time jobs alongside their studies. Many are now unable to work, having been furloughed or laid off, or are at home caring for family members. With no time for them to plan or budget, Coronavirus will leave hundreds of students in financial hardship and unable to manage basic living costs.

Some of you have asked us how you can help - and in response to this crisis, the University and the Roehampton Students’ Union have created an Emergency Hardship Fund. With donations from alumni and friends and existing money from the University, we can make a start helping some students now. But much more will be needed.

We recognise that this is a difficult time for many of you, so a gift of any size will be gratefully received. Please help ensure vulnerable students feel able to complete their course and graduate. Thank you for your support.