- I haven't got a UK bank account
- I've had an unexpected expense that I can't afford
- My laptop is faulty and the shop won't give me a refund
- I'm worried about debts and am having difficulties managing my money
- I have received a letter from a bailiff
- I am looking for funding for post-graduate studies
- My sponsorship has broken down and I have no money to live on
- I need help dealing with creditors
- I have debts to the University
- I want to find out how to apply to the Access to Learning Fund
The Money Doctors aim to promote good money management amongst students and help you manage your finances whilst studying. The Money Doctors scheme is supported by the Financial Services Authority (FSA).
The Money Doctors have now come to Reading! This is great news for students because many of you will benefit from money advice at some point during your course.
Dealing with money can be a daunting prospect and is often the last thing on your mind, however if you find yourself in some form of financial trouble, don't bury your head in the sand or ignore it! Seek help as soon as possible. Our Money Doctor can help you sort out your finances so you can focus on student life.
Why do we need Money Doctors?
- Money can be a major worry for many students.
- Students have changing circumstances, e.g. moving from home for the first time, leaving employment to return to study, suddenly having bills to pay.
- Students may need to develop new money management skills, which requires information, advice and support.
- Uncontrolled debt can cause a student to leave University. Our Money Doctors aim to prevent this.
How do the Money Doctors do this?
- Individual one-to-one advice sessions
- Information leaflets & Self help packs
- Workshops on Money Management, Living Independently and Graduate Finance.
- We will visit most Halls of Residence in the autumn term. Dates will be advertised on the web. Do come along and meet us!
What can the Money Doctors help you with?
- Money management
- Welfare benefits
- Living independently
- Consumer rights
- Bank and credit issues
- Dealing with debts
- Finding sources of funding
- National Insurance and Income Tax
- Any other financial difficulties
The University Student Financial Support Office
The Money Doctors work closely with the Student Financial Support Office. This office processes applications for financial help from the Access to Learning Fund. For more information about this fund, visit www.reading.ac.uk/moneymatters or visit The Hub and speak to our Money Doctor. We can tell you more about the funding criteria, the application process and how to complete the application form.
The Student Financial Support Office also processes all applications for University scholarships, bursaries and grants. For more information, visit www.extra.reading.ac.uk/studentfinance.
Useful websites
Student Loan Company www.slc.co.uk
HM Revenues & Customs www.hmrc.gov.uk
Aim Higher www.aimhigher.ac.uk
Student Finance www.direct.gov.uk
National Union of Students www.nusonline.co.uk
National Debtline www.nationaldebtline.co.uk
Benefits www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk
Consumer Advice www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
Office of Fair Trading www.oft.gov.uk
Education UK www.educationuk.org/scholarships
Support 4 learning www.support4learning.org.uk
If you need any financial help, advice or support, visit The Hub in your Students' Union and ask to speak to a Money Doctor.
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