FUNDING & BURSARIES

From time to time, we all experience problems with money.

You may have thoughts such as:

• ‘I am finding it difficult to manage my money.’
• ‘I am worrying about my current debt, or running up debt.’
• ‘How do I keep better track of my financial comings and goings?’

Be reassured that you can take control of your money, with the first steps in doing so being to simply recognise it.

We can assist you by suggesting ways in which you can reduce your spend, make the most of your income, and work with you to take back control of your finances

WELFARE & BENEFITS

Many full-time students are not entitled to claim benefits.

Students who are lone parents or are in receipt of disability benefits however, may be entitled to receive certain benefits as a full-time student.

Please contact Citizens Advice if you would like to discuss your entitlement. Citizens Advice Bureau offer appointments through Student Wellbeing at the Buxton campus throughout term time.

Other useful links
www.hmrc.gov.uk/home – for general information about tax and benefits.
www.entitledto.co.uk – for information on benefits and what you may be entitled to.
www.gov.uk – for guidance on employment, debt, benefits and tax.

TAX REFUNDS

Tax can be a complicated subject. If you think you may be due a tax refund or paying too much tax, find out everything else you need to know about tax and what that means for students. If you require further detail or support, book an appointment to see a Student Adviser by contacting Student Wellbeing..

Want to take control of your money? We all do, don’t we?

Many people experience challenges with money at some point during their lives and at Buxton & Leek College, we recognise that some students may have experiences like these during their course of study.

We therefore encourage all to take time to plan ahead, and think, ‘what do I need to spend my money on?’.

Below are ten top tips that may assist you taking control of your money:

1. Use a student bank account
2. Spend some time planning expenses
3. Prepare a budget sheet and list essential spend
4. Keep a record of what you spend – be aware of your spending patterns
5. Avoid credit cards and store cards – interest soon adds up and can be very expensive
6. Consider standing orders or direct debits for priority bills
7. Read the small print in mobile phone contracts. They can be expensive when free offers end
8. Plan for extra expenses at the start of the year like for example birthdays
9. If you need to borrow, use only interest free overdraft facilities
10. Avoid using cashpoint machines that charge for use

MONEY QUIZ:

Take this quiz to explore your attitudes towards finance..