Urges are being made to the government not to forget students during the cost-of-living crisis, as a growing number of students are turning toward the universities for help with financial issues.

Before Friday’s mini-budget, the Russell Group of research-intensive universities called for an immediate rise in maintenance loans, parallel to current inflation and a rise in hardship funding to reach the people in need.

A survey suggested that the average student’s maintenance loan now falls £439 short of fulfilling their living costs per month, more than a £340 shortfall last year.

“As the government sets out its emergency budget to help those struggling with the cost of living crisis, it’s critical that students are not left out of the conversation,” said Dr. Tim Bradshaw, CEO of the Russell Group.

“Our members are reporting an increase in the number of people approaching them with financial concerns. While universities are ramping up support ahead of the start of the new semester, including increasing financial aid, there is an urgent need for more assistance.”