Tag: students

Experts warn university students in Edinburgh to keep their houses safe

ADT shares advice for students to help keep homes safe   

Glenn Amato, Managing Director at ADT UK&I explains: “Moving into a university house after being in halls of residence should be an exciting time. But with lots of carefree students all living together under one roof, each with many expensive personal belongings, such as laptops and phones, burglars can sadly see student homes as a bit of a quick win with potentially big payoffs.   

“Universities are notoriously bad at publishing crime data (both on and off campus) and so before deciding on an area to live, it is highly recommended that students compare the crime rates within the most popular student areas using data from ADT’s Crime In My Area tool, an easy, online platform to check crime rates in a given postcode.    

“Once students have picked an area to live, the good news is that there are many simple ways to keep a house safe and sound from unwanted intruders, leaving students free to be able to focus on enjoying university life. The below advice provides simple and practical ways for students to look after a house for the first time, to help make living away from home a little safer and less daunting.”   

ADT guidance on protecting a university house from burglars   

·        Remember to always lock your windows and doors: Seems simple right, but the more doors and windows a home has, the more potential entry points there are. Before leaving for university or a social engagement, check that every window and door of the property is closed and locked – an open window is a big temptation for opportunists, even if it’s only left open at night. It’s crucial to make sure all doors are locked (front and back) before heading out, as it’s harder to hear someone entering the property from the back of the house. Also, if there’s a lock on the bedroom door, always remember to lock it before heading to lectures or on a night out.      

·        Make it look like someone is home even when they’re not: There are times throughout the year when universities close and the homes will be sat empty and so making it appear like someone is home could help to deter burglars. Smart bulbs (and smart plugs) can connect to a home’s Wi-Fi and can be operated remotely via a smart phone, even when no one is home. This is a great way to indicate that a house is occupied out of term-time, rather than the predictable routine of a conventional plug-in timer switch.     

·        Keep valuables out of sight: This is a simple step that can make a big difference. Before leaving the house (or going to bed), make sure there are no flashy valuables or expensive bits of tech left lying around, especially in any places that are visible from the exterior of the home. If you’re leaving the house for a long period of time, such as for the Christmas holidays, remember to take all your valuables with you, such as your laptop. It’s also worth keeping a back-up of your coursework on the cloud or an external hard drive, just in case the worst does happen, and your laptop is stolen.   

·        Forget hiding a key: Most people have managed to lock themselves out at least once but hiding a key in the vicinity of a home – whether under a flowerpot or above the doorframe – simply isn’t worth the risk. If a spare must be kept outside, at least keep it in a locked key safe, which requires a code.     

·        Be mindful on social media: Tempting as it is to share snaps when the house is lying empty, posting a location on a non-private social media account is a clear signal to potential intruders that the house is empty. Don’t let criminals know when the home is vulnerable to intrusion. ONS1 has revealed that it is as likely that a burglary is conducted by a stranger as it is to be done by someone who is known to the victim.    

·        Set your alarm: If there’s one installed in the property, be sure to use it!    

·        House party preparations: Moving away from home offers plenty of opportunities for house parties, but with multiple members of the household usually inviting friends along, it can be hard to keep track of who is inside. Where possible, try to only let people known and trusted inside. It’s also worth dedicating one bedroom for hiding all valuables and personal belongings, to stop potential thieves from stealing expensive items. 

Student health advice from NHS 24

During September students all over Scotland are preparing to start or resume their studies at college or university. As many students will be travelling away from home for the first time, NHS 24 wish to highlight the importance of knowing where to get the right health advice in their new area.

NHS 24’s student health campaign provides details on where to access services such as GPs, dentists, pharmacies, out of hours and urgent care in Scotland. Information on subjects such as immunisations, mental health support and Scotland’s Service Directory are also included.

Representatives from NHS 24 are also visiting numerous colleges and universities throughout Scotland through a programme of ‘health roadshows.’

Michelle Sinclair, Engagement Manager for NHS 24 explains: ‘It’s been a tough couple of years for everyone during the COVID-19 pandemic, and students have made adjustments by switching to online learning at various times during the past two academic years.

‘Attending various freshers and welcome events in person has been really brilliant to promote NHS 24’s 111 service and the health information available on NHS inform.  It really makes the difference to be able to provide advice face to face about student’s health requirements, and we get asked a huge variety of questions on a lot of different subjects.’

Dr Laura Ryan, a GP and NHS 24’s Medical Director adds: “It’s an exciting time for students and their families while they prepare to say goodbye to their loved ones to start their studies.

“Health information can quickly slide to the bottom of the ‘to do’ list when you are making plans to move to a different part of the country, but it’s really important you know when and where to access the service you need if you have a health concern.

“If you’ve moved away from your local area to go to college or university, you must register with a new local GP practice. This also includes students who have moved from elsewhere in Scotland, elsewhere in the UK, and abroad. You should also register with a local dentist.

“NHS inform has lots of information on how to access services in your area. By being prepared and following the advice in our student health campaign, this will avoid delays in accessing the care you need, should you require it.”

Freshers on a budget

Students are being provided with helpful tips on how to enjoy the thrills of Freshers Week without blowing all the student finance.

The cash-saving experts at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk have explored money-saving ways to prepare for this new chapter of life.

It’s an exciting time for young people, exams are finished, they may have moved to a different city and now they get to broaden their horizons in the next stage of life.

But being a new student comes at a high price, from partying with friends, to learning how to manage finances in a weekly food shop.

Mitch Barnes, online consumer expert from NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said: “We wanted to offer undergraduates a peace of mind when preparing for the costly side of moving to university.

“Freshers is a time where the memories you make will last a lifetime, but we are also aware of the extortionate costs this period of fun can lead to.

“From creating a budget folder to learning how to spend less in a nightclub, there’s plenty of helpful tips to save the extra cash.”

Here are NetVoucherCodes’s top tips to enjoy freshers on a budget:

Get all the freebies

Most campuses will hold a ‘freshers fair’ for new students to find out about a variety of interests and to sign up for exclusive offers. But it also is a place to get items for free such as tote bags, pens and even shot glasses. It’s essentially a freebie fair, so get out the goodie bag and have a look around!

Pre-drinks to save cash

Bar hopping, dress-up club nights and  pub crawls, all can break the bank in just a few days. It’s becoming more common to pre-drink beforehand with your friends and play some fun drinking games such as ‘Ring of Fire’ and ‘Never Have I Ever’.

Happy hour deals

It’s a great way to snap up a deal, 2 for 1 drinks, or happy hour £5.50 cocktails for two hours in the evening. Have a look for the bars across the city to find out who are offering the best deals.

Become a savvy supermarket shopper

Become a bargain hunter by looking out for brilliant deals, such as the yellow reduced labels every evening to make a late dinner, as well as shopping around at different supermarkets to compare the prices. It’ll help get the weekly food shop from £40 down to £20.

Student discount apps

Sign up for every app possible to get discounts from 10% to 50% on clothes, gadgets and even a free fast-food meal.

Create a budget folder

It’s easy to want to go and splash the student loan on anything and everything, but in the long run you don’t want to get to November and run out of cash. Get out coloured pens and label each folder from food shop to nights out to new clothes every month – it will all be worth it.

Invest in a student railcard

Whether you’re heading home every weekend or once in a blue moon, getting a student railcard will help save hundreds in the long run. The scheme typically saves around a third of transport costs and is particularly useful as petrol prices are at an all-time high.

Banking pots

Online banking can help tremendously to save on all the new expenses which you’ll be introduced to after going to university. Dividing the money into different pots and labelling each one can help you to learn how to save and prevent overspending.

Food discount codes

There’s plenty of student offers on takeaways to help knock off half the price, all you may need is a student discount app and some ID and the deal is yours. Have a look at discount codes on fast food delivery services.

Look for a part time job early

It’s not a priority for a lot of students, as the party side is usually at the forefront. However, the earlier you look for a part-time job the quicker you can save and make the most out of university life. Perhaps before moving in, get applying so that interviews can be lined up as the earliest opportunity.

Stock up early

A food shop becomes a big deal at university, it becomes part of your daily routine and that’s why it’s essential to stock up on cupboard foods early. Get bulk buying pasta, noodles and the big packs of toilet roll, so that you can save on the extra pennies every week.

Cheaper workouts

New city, new gym. Explore the different workout spaces near your university to see how they compare in price and facilities. Sometimes, university gyms may be more expensive compared to one down the road, so make sure to have a look.

Free streaming services

The amount of streaming services available increases by the minute. Most offer free trials to allow new members to join for a limited time before paying a monthly fee. During the freshers fair, there may be spokespeople for the streaming companies offering free trials which can last over six months, so make sure to keep an eye out.

Hold off the taxis

The temptation to get a taxi anywhere can break the bank, so have a look at walking, getting the bus or even a tram if your city has one. It’s important though to stay safe when walking back at night, so make sure to either walk with a group of friends or compare different taxi prices.

Don’t go into the overdraft

For lots of students it seems like an easy way to cover the expenses, but it’s extremely risky to go into your overdraft as it can impact the next month of trying to save money. If it’s a last minute resort, try not to make it a regular pattern otherwise it can get extremely expensive down the road.

To find out more about how to save during freshers week, head over to NetVoucherCodes.co.uk

Cyber security expert warns students of detrimental impact of gaming addiction on university experience

As new university students are beginning their first year, the habits of their childhood could have serious impacts on their studies and social life; gaming.

Unhealthy gaming habits are becoming more prevalent in students to the extent that the World Health Organization has classed gaming addiction as a disorder. While playing games can improve hand-eye coordination, excessive gaming, or internet gaming disorder (IGD) can severely affect your physical and mental health and ultimately impact your studies.

With this in mind, cyber security experts at VPNOverview have identified the warning signs, consequences, and the best ways to deal with gaming addiction. Acknowledging the warning signs of gaming addiction early can prevent any physical or mental symptoms from worsening over time.

What is video game addiction?

Video games are designed to be addictive. They immerse the player with realistic graphics, compelling sound effects, engaging storylines, and haptic feedback. The possibility that a person can become addicted to video games has been a debate for many years.

The American Psychiatric Association acknowledges that games trigger specific neurological pathways that stimulate pleasure and reward. In extreme cases, playing video games affects the brain in much the same way as alcohol, drugs, and gambling.

This being said, there is a big difference between excessive gaming and video game addiction. It’s important not to panic that you are becoming addicted to gaming unless particular symptoms develop over a long period.

If you feel as though you have demonstrated these three symptoms for at least 12 months, video game addiction may be present:

  • Impaired control over gaming: The inability to control the urge to play a video game
  • Increased priority is given to gaming: Gaming takes precedence over any other interest or daily activity
  • Continuation or escalation of gaming (despite harmful consequences to academic performance, work, social relationships, or health)

What are the warning signs of video game addiction?

According to The American Psychological Association, video game addiction is built on the need to spend more time gaming games.

Withdrawal symptoms are a warning sign of video game addiction. When depriving yourself suddenly of the possibility of playing video games, even for a short amount of time, sadness, irritability, and anxiety are typical withdrawal symptoms.

In addition to these symptoms, less obvious clues may include:

  • Forgoing basic needs such as eating, sleeping, and taking care of personal hygiene
  • Loss of interest in other activities, social life, hobbies, and friends
  • Performing poorly at university due to an inability to focus
  • Lying to family/housemates about the time spent gaming
  • Ignoring problems caused by video games

What are the consequences of video game addiction?

In 2020, the most extensive study ever conducted on teenage video game addiction, examining trajectories of pathological video game symptoms over six years, found that 10% of the group of adolescents studied showed physical and mental signs that got worse over time because of playing video games.

Physical effects of gaming addiction

Below are the associated physical risks associated with gaming addiction. These can all be worsened by excessive drinking, poor diet, and lack of sleep typical in university students:

  • Lowered immune function due to chronic stress
  • Sedentary lifestyle; lack of physical exercise, weight gain, poor posture, and a higher risk of type two diabetes
  • Seizures from exposure to flickering graphics and lights
  • Migraines
  • Insomnia and chronic fatigue
  • Poor personal hygiene
  • Repetitive stress injuries in wrists or hands, including Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Disrupted eating habits
  • Myopia and other eye conditions
  • Disrupted sleep

Mental effects of gaming addiction

Video game addiction does not only affect a person’s emotions but also their nervous system. Increased levels of cortisol, also known as the stress hormone, are produced in gamers because of constant overstimulation and hyperarousal. This can cause chronic stress and can lead to the following:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Lack of concentration
  • Difficulty managing impulses
  • Hostility and aggression
  • Lack of social engagement
  • Decreased levels of creativity and passion 

How to deal with video game addiction?

It is important for students to manage their gaming time effectively, as the compulsion to play can overshadow the heavy workloads that many students face. Below is a list of things you can do to manage unhealthy gaming habits:

  • Complete your assignments first – Studies have shown that student gamers spend 30% less time reading and 34% less time on coursework. It is essential that gamers set up a healthy routine that only allows game time once they have completed the necessary work, almost like rewarding yourself.  
  • Get exercise– Exercise is very beneficial when reducing stress and improving sleep quality. Keeping active can come in the form of a sociable team sport that will keep you active whilst allowing you to make new friends.
  • Don’t lose sleep – Studies have shown that 24% of adolescents are gaming past 9 pm. Gaming late into the night has been associated with higher levels of daytime sleepiness and an increase in the time it takes to fall asleep, particularly if games are violent. Sleep deprivation can cause a decline in memory and concentration levels, a big problem for students trying to absorb information, take exams and write essays.
  • Don’t spend too much time alone in your room gaming – Isolating yourself will only inhibit forming relationships and friendships with the people around you. Social interactions and making friends are imperative to the university experience as you are building a support network to help you through stressful times. Keeping your game in a communal space will encourage more socialising and stop you from appearing unapproachable and isolated.

An expert from VPNOverview commented on the study: “While gaming addiction is rare, excessive gaming is widespread and can negatively affect a student’s mental and physical health. Factors such as loneliness, anxiety, and stress worsen unhealthy gaming habits.

“Students who are perhaps shy and less likely to engage in typical university social events are more likely to develop unhealthy gaming habits. Putting yourself out there and being sociable will help you to form relationships and make the university experience more enjoyable. Reducing the amount of time spent gaming will also have a positive impact on university grades.”

VPNOverview.com are a dedicated team of cybersecurity and privacy professionals offering guidance on these topics in the most accessible way possible.

Scotland’s students warned to watch out for these common online scams

As university students around Scotland enrol on their undergraduate courses this September, scammers continue to employ new and creative methods to defraud unsuspecting students out of thousands of pounds online.

With this in mind, David Janssen, a cybersecurity expert and founder of VPNOverview, has put together a list of the most common online student scams, including what to look out for and how to avoid them.

1. Student Loans Company (SLC) phishing scam

If your course is starting in September this year, then your government student loan will be paid to you in three instalments, which you should receive during September, January and April.

Scammers will choose to send ‘phishing’ emails or texts to students during these months, in which they falsely pose as the Student Loans Company asking you to verify personal banking information. These texts or emails often ask the user to log into their account and confirm their banking details via a ‘secure link’ in order to receive their first loan payment. This link will then direct the user to a copycat webpage that replicates the SLC website, which then steals your personal and banking details.

While these emails can be quite convincing, giveaways you have received an SLC scam email include; spelling or grammatical errors in the body of text, pixelated or stretched images of SLC logos and generic greetings such as ‘Dear Sir/Madam/Student.’

Remember, SLC will never ask you to confirm your bank details via email or text message. Only ever log into your student finance account through the government login portal to check or update your loan payment details. If you suspect you have received a phishing text or email, forward it to phishing@slc.co.uk or your university IT department before deleting it.

2. HMRC tax rebate scam

University students often choose to take on a part-time job in order to provide an additional source of income to help cover their cost of living. For some this may be their first time in employment, meaning they haven’t paid tax before and are unfamiliar with genuine contact from HMRC, making them more vulnerable to online scammers.

Cybercriminals will send text messages and emails to students, claiming to be from HMRC, stating that the individual is owed a tax refund. The message will then prompt the person to first confirm their details through the link provided in order to receive this money.

Much like Student Loan Company scams, these texts and emails can be quite convincing and will use images and formal language to make the user believe it is legitimate. The link will either lead to a fake website, where the user unknowingly hands over their personal details, or it will download malware onto the user’s device which then harvests their personal information.

It’s important to note that HMRC will never ask you to click through on any links in their communication with you. If you are genuinely entitled to a tax refund, HMRC will send you a letter stating so. If you are unsure whether you have received a scam HMRC email, forward it to phishing@hmrc.gov.uk where they will confirm whether or not it is a legitimate correspondence. Scam texts can be forwarded for free to 60599.

3. Freshers Week ticket scam

As a new student, you are likely going to worry about missing out on key social events such as Freshers Week, where you can mix with other students during your first week of university.

Scammers will try to exploit students by posting fake student or freshers’ events on Instagram or Facebook, with the aim of pocketing your money. These events will often imply they are the only ‘official’ event and may include phrases such as ‘Limited availability’ or ‘Final Release’ in the event title, creating a sense of urgency to buy tickets so that you don’t miss out.

In reality, Freshers’ Week tickets rarely sell out, and some universities will even allow you to buy them throughout your first week of university. Even when buying a genuine Fresher’s Week ticket or wristband online, you may be required to purchase it through a separate designated website.

The best way to ensure that you are buying from the correct site is to visit your university’s official website and click through to the ticket page from there, rather than searching online or clicking through from Facebook or Instagram pages.

4. Facebook Marketplace scam

The majority of university courses require students to complete some form of additional reading outside of their lecture hours. However, as brand-new course textbooks can be expensive, many students opt for second-hand books from Facebook Marketplace or Facebook resale groups.

Scammers will often set up fake accounts, posing as a Facebook Marketplace seller promising to post the textbooks once you have bank transferred the money. Warning signs that you are dealing with a fraudulent seller include; their profile has only recently joined Facebook, they have limited or no profile pictures or there is little engagement from other users on their profile.

Even if the Facebook user appears authentic and trustworthy, avoid bank transferring money to people you do not know. Suggest meeting up on campus or in a public place, and offer to pay in cash rather than via bank transfer. Alternatively, Amazon sells used copies of textbooks through verified sellers, where you will have a level of buyer protection.

5. Student accommodation rental scam

A few months into your university experience you may begin looking for accommodation for your second year of study, which is often based off campus. Unfortunately, fraudulent landlords will be looking to make a quick buck from unsuspecting students looking to rent shared student accommodation.

One common rental scam involves the would-be ‘landlord’ listing a non-existent property online and then requesting for a holding deposit to be made in order to take the property off the market. The listing is then taken offline, and the landlord is no longer contactable.

Remember, if the price looks too good to be true then it probably is. Make sure you view the property in person before placing any kind of deposit and aim to use a trusted student letting agent to avoid falling victim to this type of scam.

Your university website or student union may also offer a list of verified and trusted letting agents located within your area.

Royal Life Saving Society UK’s #DontDrinkandDrown campaign targets students heading to university

The Royal Life Saving Society UK’s (RLSS UK) annual week long Don’t Drink and Drown campaign launches on 12th September, aiming to get the message across about water safety as thousands of students head off to start their first year at university. 

In a sample of UK accidental drowning cases analysed in detail by RLSS UK, at least half of those aged 16-25 who lost their life were students.  As a result, the charity is urging students to familiarise themselves with their new surroundings, especially if there is a body of water within the town or city they are moving to. 

3 in 4 of these accidental drowning victims were alone . The campaign aims to speak to students and encourage them to, after a night out, be responsible for their friends, be a mate, and ensure they return home safely. 

As fresher’s events take place across the UK in September, many students will be heading to bars and clubs to celebrate the start of their university adventure, and this is where RLSS UK fears tragedies may occur.

Lee Heard, Charity Director at RLSS UK, said: “We have seen tragic stories in the past where students have been excited for a new adventure in a new city and should have been enjoying their first few weeks at university but sadly their night did not end how it should have. 

“45% of accidental drownings among 16-25 year olds in the last 5 years cited alcohol and/or drugs; we know that alcohol and drugs have a number of different effects on the body including lowering inhibitions, which leads to impaired judgment, and this is where we see people taking risks and getting themselves into trouble in, on and around water.”

In line with this, the data also reveals that when under the influence of alcohol or drugs, accidental drowning victims are much more likely to have unintentionally fallen into the water; 55% compared to 36% for those who were not under the influence.

Lee continued: “We are encouraging students to get to know their new surroundings and if they have a river, canal or other body of water in the city or town that they have moved to, then ensure that the route home after a night out is one which steers clear of the water.” 

Further analysis among this group highlighted that, where known, over half of drug and alcohol related drownings take place between 11pm and 5am, the time in which students may be walking home from nights out.

RLSS UK wants to reinforce the message of safety in numbers, be a mate, and stick together to make sure everyone makes it home safe. 

Lee said: “Unfortunately in recent years we have seen cases of young people walking home after a night of drinking, and for various reasons getting too close to the edge and ending up in the water.

“At this time of year the water is colder than it looks and cold water shock is a significant factor, and paired with alcohol numbing senses, limiting muscle ability and slowing down reactions, it makes it extremely difficult to be able to swim and self-rescue.

“As we see, mainly young men, walking home alone, sadly in these cases there is nobody around to help we see nights out turn into tragedies.” 

For more information on the campaign and to support RLSS UK’s Don’t Drink and Drown campaign this September visit www.rlss.org.uk/dont-drink-and-drown.

Which? How to save as a student

As the cost of living crisis continues to bite, many university students will be looking for ways to cut back. 

A recent study by the National Union of Students (NUS) found that a third of students are living on less than £50 a month after paying rent and bills. With the cost of living soaring, 96 per cent of students are cutting back on spending as a result.

Which? has nine tips for students wanting to save money while they study:

1. Choose the best student bank account

Choosing the best student bank account should be a priority. When looking for an account to suit your needs, Which? recommends finding one with a generous 0% overdraft that lasts for the length of your course.

Student bank account providers offer different perks and offers – so it’s worth making sure you get the deal best suited to you. For example, Santander offers a free four-year railcard which is worth around £90 but it doesn’t offer the largest interest-free overdraft and you’ll need to pay in £500 per term.

While NatWest offers one of the largest overdrafts for first-year students, the freebies, such as its one-year Tastecard membership, aren’t as valuable. Other accounts offer cash incentives of up to £100.

2. Consider what kind of laptop or computer you need

Most students find a laptop, rather than a desktop computer, better for university as they’re easy to carry around and don’t take up too much space. Don’t overspend on a laptop that’s too powerful for your needs. Between £250 and £400 should be enough if you’re only going to be researching and creating Word documents.

It’s worth searching for student discounts and deals on laptops. For instance, Lenovo offers up to 30 per cent off for students, but you might need to show a valid student ID. You can often find the best deals direct from manufacturers’ websites. For example, HP offers £150 cashback if you trade in an old laptop for a new one. Buying second hand or refurbished laptops is another way to save.

If you plan to work from home most of the time and you’re on a tight budget, a desktop computer might be a cost-effective option, especially if you already have a computer monitor, keyboard and mouse. Desktops typically have a faster processor, more ports and more RAM and storage, compared to the same-priced laptop.

Most universities have computers around campus for students to use, and some have laptops that can be used in their libraries.


3. Find out what additional support is available 

Most universities offer additional financial support, particularly  – although not exclusively – to students from lower-income families. The most common examples are bursaries and scholarships to help with some or all of a student’s tuition fees or living costs. Companies, charities and special-interest groups are all common sources of funding, too. Bursaries and scholarships may be awarded based on academic merit (i.e. achieving high grades at A-level), a talent or skill, and extracurricular achievements.

If you have a disability or dependants who rely on you for care or financial support (for example children, or parents you care for), you might be eligible for grants or allowances to help you. Students will be asked about this when applying for student finance, but it’s worth researching what your university, charities and other groups offer, too.

4. Share subscriptions with your flatmates

Lots of student accommodation doesn’t come with a television or TV licence, and many students rely on streaming services as a result. You can cut this cost by sharing streaming subscriptions within a household. Most services have plans that could help users save money, without losing their personalised features. For example, Spotify offers a Premium Duo plan for £13.99 a month for two people in the same household, saving £71.88 a year compared to the price of two individual subscriptions.

For larger households, the Spotify Premium Family plan for £16.99 a month allows up to six users to get premium benefits, saving a whopping £515.40 a year over six individual subscriptions. Amazon Prime also allows users to share benefits with another person in their household, halving the cost of having two separate accounts.


5. Buy books second hand 

Students will no doubt be presented with a long list of books that they’ll need to buy as part of their course. Tutors often insist you buy them all, but it might be worth checking how many are mandatory and how many are ‘nice-to-haves’. Find out if any necessary books are available in your library to borrow, or if the relevant bits are available online to download for free. Some departments have their own second-hand book schemes, and many university bookshops sell second-hand copies as well. It could also be worth searching for cheaper second-hand copies on online marketplaces.

6. Find student discount codes

It’s always worth checking if you can pay less with a student discount, whether you’re going out for a pizza with friends or treating yourself to a new pair of jeans. Discounts can range from around 5 per cent to 40 per cent, so there are often big savings to be made. While students can typically use their physical student card in shops and restaurants, there are also online cards and schemes you can sign up for such as Totum, Tastecard, Unidays, Student Beans and International Student Card. Each service offers its own exclusive online discounts, so you’ll get different deals with each.


7. Look for freebies

Several companies offer freebies for students, so it’s worth searching for the best ones. For example, Amazon Prime offers six months free when you sign up to an Amazon Prime Student Trial. Students can also sign up for Microsoft’s Office 365 Education for free with their university email address. McDonald’s also offers a free cheeseburger, mayo chicken, or McFlurry Original when you buy any extra value or wrap meal and show a valid student or Student Beans ID.


8. Save money on bills 

While those living in student accommodation will likely have their utilities included, students living off campus usually need to pay for this themselves. Think about ways you could reduce energy use for cheaper bills, such as cooking with housemates, charging your laptop on campus and not leaving gadgets on standby. Students are also exempt from paying council tax.


9. Save on transport 

There are several ways to save on transport as a student. For example, the 16-25 railcard gives a third off rail journeys for just £30 per year, or £20 a year if you purchase via the Trainline before 31 August 2022.

You can also buy a railcard with £10 of Tesco Clubcard vouchers. National Express offers a Young Persons Coachcard for £15 that grants a third off journeys as well. It’s worth checking if you can get local travel cards or bus passes – different cities around the UK will have different options.

It might also be cost-effective to take a bike with you to save on transport costs. Some universities have their own bike loan schemes, so it’s worth checking when you arrive.

Reena Sewraz, Which? Senior Shopping and Money Editor, said: “University is already expensive and the rising cost of rent, food, energy and train fares, as well as books and other student essentials, means that many will be feeling the squeeze and looking for ways to cut back.

“There are ways to stay on top of things. Try sticking to a budget to keep track of your spending. Find a student bank account that offers a decent 0 per cent overdraft and perks that meet your needs. You can also save in a wide range of shops and restaurants with student discounts and offers – so it’s always worth keeping an eye out for deals.”

Meningitis Now urges students to ‘look out for your mates’

A sister’s quick thinking saved the life of a student who had fallen ill with meningitis, when she took her straight to A&E on their way home from university.

Ashleigh Denton was 18 and in her first year at the University of the West of England in Bristol when she became ill with a headache and flu-like symptoms on a night out. The following day her sister Sophie drove from Oxfordshire to collect her but, halfway home, went straight to Swindon A&E as Ashleigh’s condition suddenly worsened.

Doctors say her fast response that day saved Ashleigh’s life.

“If my sister had tried to take me to Oxford rather than Swindon – less than an hour down the road – doctors said I would have died,” Ashleigh said. “It would have been too late.”

Now Ashleigh, 29, is telling her story to raise awareness of meningitis and the importance of looking out for your friends and taking quick action if the disease is suspected, as she spearheads charity Meningitis Now’s ‘Look out for your mates’ student campaign, which launches today.

The campaign is timed to coincide with the announcement of A-level results as thousands of young people contemplate their future. Meningitis Now is concerned that the combination of new-found social freedoms, the desire of young people to mix in large groups and a move to campus-based accommodation for students, will present the ideal opportunity for infectious diseases to spread, putting young people at a higher risk of meningitis.

“If you’re at university and you or one of your friends is unwell or acting out of character and you’re not sure if it’s something small or serious, get things checked out,” Ashleigh added. “Don’t be afraid to go to hospital – meningitis can develop so quickly, from just having a headache to being at death’s door.”

“It is so important to have your symptoms checked as soon as possible if you are concerned.”

Ashleigh, from Bicester in Oxfordshire, initially thought she was getting a cold. “I started to get a headache, but I wasn’t worried, so I went out with my friends as planned.

“Within a couple of hours my behaviour had changed – I was agitated and emotional – and this is one of the biggest things I tell people. It’s not the physical symptoms that I remember the most, but my behaviour.”

Ashleigh left the club and two girls who were going to the same place as her shared a taxi home. “They noticed I was unwell and even offered for me to stay at theirs, but I declined as I just wanted my bed,” she said.

“The next day I woke up, still with a headache, and assumed I was just hungover. As the day went on I really didn’t feel right. I phoned my mum to tell her and that I was going to sleep for a bit, but I was crying and she knew something wasn’t right.

“She spoke to my sister, who phoned me and asked if I wanted her to pick me up and take me home. I initially said ‘no’ but eventually agreed and she came from Oxford to Bristol to get me.

“In the car home my symptoms got worse very quickly. My head was so sore, I couldn’t open my eyes, my neck stiffened, I was retching, and I just knew something was seriously wrong.

“Just at the right time my sister saw a sign for the hospital in Swindon and took me straight there.

“In A&E I remember struggling to breathe, so I just stopped as it felt like the easier option. My sister shook me and I came to and started breathing again, but it wasn’t long before I stopped. My sister pressed the panic button and within seconds a team rushed in and carried me to resus.

“I am told I became aggressive, so I was sedated and admitted to ITU.

“During this time I was given a CT scan and a lumbar puncture, which confirmed I had Group B meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia.

“I had developed a rash but not until I got to hospital. What most people don’t realise is that the rash is not an early symptom and if you have one, you are in the advanced stages of meningitis.”

Ashleigh’s family was told there was a one in three chance that she would wake up blind, deaf or brain damaged.

“But fortunately I woke up two days after arriving at hospital and the first thing I said was ‘I want my breakfast’. Somehow, before I was even told, I knew I had meningitis.

“I was in hospital for a week and unable to walk or get out of bed by myself for the first few days. What I didn’t realise at the time was that my brain was muddled as a result of the infection and would be for a few months. I just had no awareness of this until a family member asked my mum if I was making any sense a few weeks after I’d got home.”

Fortunately, despite not being her usual self for three months and struggling with fatigue, Ashleigh went on to make a good recovery, even returning to university for her exams in August, five months after she first became ill.

“I am forever thankful for my family, and the doctors and nurses at Great Western Hospital in Swindon, for saving my life.”

Ryan Bresnahan wasn’t so lucky, His mum, Michelle, who set up the Bristol-based charity, a Life for a Cure, following Ryan’s death from meningitis in 2010, has been campaigning tirelessly to raise awareness of the symptoms of the disease and funds for research.

Ryan was a fit and healthy 16-year-old when he was tragically struck down by Meningitis B within an hour of first feeling ill.

Michelle said: “I know only too well how devastating this disease can be and have seen the worst it can do, destroying young lives and tearing apart those who remain.

“No-one should be left counting the cost of making the wrong assumption – meningitis can affect anyone at any time but we need to highlight that teenagers and young people are the second most at risk group of contracting the disease, after babies and toddlers.”

Meningitis Now chief executive, Dr Tom Nutt, said: “Research has shown that up to a quarter of 15 to 24-year-olds carry the bacteria that cause meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia in the back of their throats compared to one in 10 of the general population.

“Whilst many young people will have been vaccinated against MenACWY, which protects against four strains of meningococcal meningitis, at school, we estimate that up to half a million under-25s may have missed this important vaccination. If that’s you – contact your GP and see if you can get up to date with your vaccinations.

“And very few young people will have been vaccinated against MenB, which is the strain Ashleigh and Ryan had and that causes the most cases of bacterial meningitis in the UK.

“Common complaints such as a hangover and Freshers’ Flu are often given as reasons for a person not feeling too well – but we are asking young people not to simply assume this is the case. A headache and fever are also common signs of meningitis, which is why it is so important that young people should learn the signs and symptoms of the disease, look out for themselves and their mates and seek medical help straight away if they feel unwell.”

The early signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia can be similar to ‘flu, tummy bug or a hangover and include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle pain, stomach cramps and fever with cold hands and feet.

More specific signs and symptoms include fever with cold hands and feet, drowsiness, confusion, pale blotchy skin, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights and a rash which doesn’t fade under pressure.

Meningitis Now has free information for parents and students, including leaflets, signs and symptoms cards and fridge magnets – all of which contain lifesaving information.

Find out more at www.MeningitisNow.org

Edinburgh is most expensive city for students

  • Edinburgh is the only UK city where student spend outweighs their income
  • Cardiff tops the Royal Bank Student Living Index as most affordable
  • Canterbury University most likely to be picked for subject choice, followed by Glasgow University
  • Glasgow University students report the highest levels of stress
  • Average student incomes have increased by 65% compared to 2021
  • Outgoing costs for students are 29% higher than last year

Edinburgh is now the most expensive place in the UK for students to live as revealed in the Royal Bank of Scotland Student Living Index. The index takes account of student spending and income to calculate a score for university towns and cities across the UK.

This year has shown that household bills have more than doubled for students with an average cost of £56.45 per month, with supermarket spending accounting for the single biggest monthly outlay at £76.29 each month.

Edinburgh has the highest cost of student living. Students in the Scottish capital have a monthly term-time income of £934, the lowest of all the cities ranked, whilst their total monthly spending is at £949. Edinburgh students are the least likely to combine studying and working during the academic term.

In contrast, Cardiff tops the list of UK cities for the best value for money. Below average rent prices combined with higher-than-average term-time incomes contributed to Cardiff being named the most affordable student city.  

Term time income for Cardiff students averages at £2241.65 and is the fifth highest of all the cities surveyed. They spend an average of £1,041 in total – the fourth lowest of all the cities in the Student Living Index.

The Royal Bank Student Living Index surveyed 2,964 students across the UK to determine the most affordable place to study. The survey accounts for factors such as how much students spend on going out to income through part-time work.

Oxford is now the most expensive place for a pint, with students expecting to pay £5.50 per drink, closely followed by London with an expected cost of £4.90. In comparison to Durham where students can expect to pay just £3.20 and Coventry at £3.40.

Students studying in London and Manchester were the most likely to rely on parents or family for income. London students received £295.10 more from this source than the UK average of £334.40 and those in Manchester £193.10. Compared to 2021, Oxbridge students are relying less on parents and family to pay rent and more so on bursaries and scholarships in 2022.

When it came to budgeting, over a third (35%) of students have found themselves running out of money by the end of term – 8% higher than in 2021. Just under one in five students said that they find managing their money stressful, and this the most pronounced in Coventry. Students in Cambridge are the most likely to put away month each month, 82% higher than the UK average.   

Perhaps in response to Covid-19 restrictions ending, compared to 2021 students are spending an average of 63% more on going out than the previous year.

A quarter of students felt that their universities do nothing to help with the ongoing cost of living crisis. Durham had the highest number of students who felt they had no support from their university at 56%.

Addressing the cost of living challenges, almost nine in ten (88%) students have made lifestyle changes to live within their budgets, with reducing the number of items bought online the most widely adopted change.

Changes to how students shop in the supermarket have also been a factor, with 46% saying they’ve swapped to own-brands. Meanwhile, 43% said they were buying fewer takeaways. 

Laura Behan, Head of Royal Bank Student Accounts said: “Despite the cost of living increasing dramatically, we’ve not seen that hit students quite as hard as may have been expected this year. Rents were set well in advance of the academic year and inflation increased much later into the academic year.

“However, with the cost of living increasing, especially as we look towards the start of the new university year in September, it is vital that students properly manage their finances. We offer a range of tools to help, including spend categorisation in our mobile app so students can see exactly where their money is going every month and a Round Ups tool to help develop a strong savings habit.”

The Royal Bank of Scotland student account offers a £80 cash incentive within the first 30 days of opening the account, a four-year tastecard membership and a £2000 interest free overdraft.

Royal Bank also offers free Financial Health checks to help students to organise their finances.

Find out more at www.rbs.co.uk/students  

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