Cost of living - managing your finances while attending college

What financial support is available at college?

There’s a range of financial support and bursaries available at Merrist Wood College for eligible students.   

These bursaries allow students with financial barriers to access everything they need to attend college and thrive on their course. They may be used to pay for essential travel, meal credits, books, equipment or childcare.   

They are discretionary and the amount received will depend on individual circumstance and financial need.   

We also have financial bursaries for 19+ students still available.   

Travel support – getting to and from college

If the cost of travel is affecting your ability to get to college, we may be able to help!  

If you live three miles or more from the nearest Activate Learning campus offering your course, you may be eligible.   

You may be able to use your travel bursary for travel passes or travel expenses. Please refer to financial support and bursaries for more information regarding travel bursaries.  

Eating at college

Breakfast Club,  8.15 to 9am only

In support of our students and ensuring they start the day with something in their stomachs, we have put together an offer which is free to select at any of our Recharge main outlets. The strict bit: This is to be used only once per day, Students must select one option, Student lanyards must be worn and the options are not transferable for other items.

Just say “Breakfast club offer” when asking for your selected option.

Breakfast Club – choice of each option

Option 1

• Standard Cup of Tea or Americano Coffee – Bottle Water
• 2 Slices Toast (Spread/Jam)

Option 2

• Standard Cup of Tea or Americano Coffee – Bottle Water
• Cornflakes/Rice Krispies – with Milk ( Dairy/Soya available)

You may be eligible for free meals (breakfast or lunch) at college.   

Please refer to financial support and bursaries for more information regarding meal credits.   

Food and clothing support services in Surrey

Here is a selection of local food, clothing, young people and family support services in Surrey:

Surrey Crisis Fund 

Surrey Crisis Fund help with food, toiletries, emergency travel costs (hospital appointments, job interviews etc) and online applications.  

They are a Surrey local authority and can be contacted via email at surreycrisisfund@surreycc.gov.uk.  

The Hive  

The Hive offers the Honey Pot Café as a space for families with tea and coffee available from 55p. 

They are open Monday to Thursday from 9.30am–4pm and Friday from 9am–3.30pm 

They are located at The Hive, Park Barn Drive, Guildford, GU2 8EN. 

They can be contacted via email at community.wellbeing@guildford.gov.uk 

Step by Step 

Step by Step supports young people through hard times. They offer accommodation, counselling and other support services online and in person as required.  

They can be contacted on 01252 346 105 or via email at launch@stepbystep.org.uk.                                                         

North Guildford Food Bank 

North Guildford Food Bank offers surplus food to the local community. 

They are open Tuesday from 1–2pm, Wednesday from 9:30–10:30am and Friday from 5:30–6.25pm 

They are located at St. Claire’s Church Park Barn, Guildford, . 

They can be contacted on 07583025435 or via email at northguildfordfoodbank@gmail.com. 

Guildford Action for Families 

Guildford Action for Families supports families at difficult times. They can help with food, clothing and other items.  

They can be contacted on 01483 560003 or via email at info@guildfordaction.org.uk.  

Sourcing sustainable fashion

Looking for sustainable fashion that’s eco-conscious and budget friendly? Check out:   

• Vinted  
• EBay  
• Depop   
• Facebook Marketplace   
• Charity shops  

Are you concerned about money?

If you are concerned about the cost of living and could benefit from support, please contact Student Support.    

We’re here to support your studies and make sure you have everything you need to attend and thrive at college.