University of Portsmouth cuts student rents by 80 per cent in wake of coronavirus lockdown

Leaders have slashed charges at university-owned halls by 80 per cent, backdated to January 4 and until February 8, and have successfully lobbied Unite Students to cut bills by half between January 18 and February 14.

It comes as lockdown prevented students from returning to Portsmouth after the Christmas break.

Some students have returned in defiance of the Covid measures, while others were allowed to return as their courses require face-to-face teaching.

A spokesman said: ‘We recognise that these adjustments may need to be extended following any further advice from the government, but we will operate the same approach in the future for any extension to lockdowns that may occur.

‘Unfortunately, the university has no influence or control over the hundreds of accommodation contracts between students and private sector accommodation providers, which range from purpose-built student accommodation to single rooms in private houses.

‘However, we will work with the Students’ Union to actively lobby private accommodation providers to provide similar support to students.’

Calls had been made for academics to help the city's 29,000 students, and to reduce tuition fees.

UK students pay £9,250 a year to study at the institution, while international students’ fees skyrocket. Studying dentistry costs £25,000 a year.

Tuition fees will not be cut, a spokesman said. He said measures are in place to ensure students are not disadvantaged by online learning.

He said: ‘The university has made, and continues to make, a considerable investment to ensure high-quality teaching continues with the full engagement of academic staff and all the associated support services.

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‘Students are being supported to achieve the learning outcomes required by their courses, albeit in a different way than would have been the case had the Covid-19 crisis not happened.

‘Consequently, the university is not making any changes to students’ course fee payments.’

He said the higher education sector is waiting to hear more from government on support.

Support

Several measures are in place for students in the city.

The university's support fund is for those suffering financial hardship.

Help is also given to those who are self-isolating. Welfare checks are being carried out, food is being provided in some cases together with a laundry service and online social events.

The Student Wellbeing Service is available for support via video, email and phone on [email protected]

The Residential Life teams provide support for students in halls of residence and can be contacted on (023) 9284 3418 or [email protected]

The Academic Skills Unit provides additional one-to-one and small group tutorials and guidance on coursework - [email protected]

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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