Hardy responds to NUS setting out safety net needs for students

"The issues facing students as a result of the coronavirus crisis must not be overlooked, including lack of access to part-time work, accommodation costs and the upheaval to their studies.

"Labour wholeheartedly supports the NUS's call for a student hardship fund and the option to retake their studies.

"There needs to be a safety net. The government needs to provide extra financial support, more mental health support, and any requirements that arise with SEND."

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Notes to Editors

NUS (National Union of Students) is calling for a student hardship fund and the option for students to retake or be reimbursed for the academic year, after new research showed that 81 per cent of students are worried about their future job prospects, while 95 per cent of students are concerned about the impact of Covid-19 on the economy.

In NUS’ Coronavirus and Students Survey April 2020, which involved nearly 10,000 students across all age ranges, learning experiences and nations and regions of the UK:
· 33 per cent of students are at critical risk of being unable to access their education;
· 74 per cent are worried about the risk to their final qualifications;
· Up to 85 per cent of working students may need additional financial support as incomes drop;
· 95 per cent of students expressed fears about the impact of the virus on the wider economy;
· 81 per cent expressed concerns about their job prospect; and
· 71 per cent worried about the impact the pandemic will have on their employability