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Award recognises University’s support for estranged students

Award recognises University’s support for estranged students

Posted on 8 December 2022

The University of York has been recognised for “innovation and creativity” in supporting the emotional wellbeing of estranged students.

Stand Alone is a charity committed to developing support for estranged students

The award, from the Stand Alone Pledge, highlights the ways in which the University recognises the emotional needs of estranged students during their time at York, along with the personal commitment and support of staff members and teams.

Taking the Stand Alone pledge demonstrates that the University is working to create the right environment and conditions for estranged students to complete their course by improving support mechanisms in four key areas - finance, accommodation, mental health, and outreach.

In 2022, the University's emotional support package has ensured estranged students are:

able to access a Student Buddying Scheme where new students will be matched with a current estranged student prior to their arrival.
provided with a dedicated contact within the Student Support Team for any mental health support they need
able to access a financial support package so that students can enjoy all aspects of their University experience
able to participate in music and sports through a free sports membership and a College Music Access Scholarship
supported with moving logistics, such as offering kitchen and bedding packs, suitcases, and contribution to travel costs of arriving at university
not alone at holiday periods, particularly Christmas where they can access seasonal food on campus and a Christmas gift bundle.

Stand Alone is a charity committed to developing support for estranged students in higher education, and its ‘Stand Alone Pledge’ helps higher education institutions develop support and enable estranged young students to stay resilient.

Public commitment

By making the Stand Alone Pledge, universities publicly commit to supporting students who are studying without the support or approval of a family network.

Estranged students drop out of Higher Education at a rate that is three times higher than the average student. Many are determined to study, but a lack of material and emotional support and/or approval from their family can act as a disadvantage

The pledge recognises that estranged students should not be held back from succeeding in Higher Education, and helps institutions to develop support.

Support to succeed

Nic Streatfield, Director of Student Life and Wellbeing, said: “This is the second year we have received a Pledge award and is testament to the passion, caring, and dedication of our team of student support, access and outreach staff.

“All of our students are fully supported to succeed in their studies, but it is particularly important to recognise the specific needs of estranged and cared for students to ensure that they thrive and get the best out of their time with us.”