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Day 9

Financial Support at Christmas

Financial Support at Christmas

Financial Tips for Swansea Students This Christmas

The festive season is exciting, but it can also be expensive. Here are some practical ways to keep your finances in check while still enjoying the holidays.

For a comprehensive breakdown of saving money at Christmas, check out this handy PDF - Money Advice @ Christmas 

Check out the Money Advice Team

If you’re worried about money, don’t struggle alone this Christmas. 

The award-winning Money Advice team are here to provide information, advice and guidance to the diverse student population at Swansea University and our prospective students.  We aim to empower students to take control of their finances in order to limit the impact of financial issues to ensure students achieve their maximum potential whilst ensuring a positive student experience.

We advise on student funding, financial hardship, budgeting and also provide financial assistance to students who have additional considerations such as being a care leaver, a carer or being estranged from your family.  If you do not fall within any of these groups but feel you have specific considerations that may require financial support*, please contact us. 

Budget Smart

Christmas can tempt us to overspend, but a clear budget makes a big difference. Review your bank statements, set a spending limit for gifts and social events, and stick to it. Try the 30-day rule, wait a month before buying non-essential items. Meal prepping can also save you money over takeaways!

Stores like to send multiple emails with discounts and offers to tempt customers into buying something. Unsubscribe from all store mailing lists to stop the temptation, it really does work!

Challenge every expense you have - you will probably find that you can cut somethings out. Want to know what to do? Write down every expense you have, look for the expenses that you can fully cut out and look for ways to save money on the remaining expenses.

Maximise Student Discounts

Your student status is a powerful tool for saving money! Apps like UNiDAYS, Student Beans, and TOTUM offer discounts on everything from fashion and tech to food and travel. If you’re heading home, a 16–25 Railcard can cut train fares by a third. For food, check out Too Good To Go, many Swansea cafes and restaurants use it to sell surplus meals at a fraction of the price. Always look to see if you can share costs with housemates if possible!

These small savings add up quickly, so make the most of them this festive season.

Cost of Living Support

Swansea University understands that the cost of living can be a challenge, especially during the holidays. That’s why there’s a dedicated Cost of Living hub packed with resources, including budgeting workshops, hardship funds, and wellbeing support. The Students’ Union also runs cost-of-living events and offers advice through their Advice and Support Centre. These services are free and designed to help you feel supported.

Please don’t hesitate to use them!

Earn Extra Cash

If you need a financial boost, consider picking up part-time work. Swansea’s Employment Zone and SU job board list opportunities both on campus and in the local area.

Seasonal roles in Swansea city centre are in high demand, and online freelance gigs can be a flexible option if you prefer working from home.

Another quick way to earn extra cash is by selling unwanted clothes or tech on platforms like Vinted. A little effort now can make a big difference to your holiday budget!

Avoid Debt Traps

It’s tempting to use “Buy Now, Pay Later” schemes like Klarna or ClearPay during the festive rush, but these can lead to high interest and financial stress later.

If you’re considering borrowing, speak to the Money Advice Team first, they can help you find safer options and avoid unnecessary debt.

Remember, it’s better to plan ahead and spend within your means than to start the new year with financial worries.

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Remember: Christmas is about connection, not cost. Secret Santa, homemade gifts, and shared meals can make the season special without breaking the bank.

Focus on experiences and time with loved ones - it’s the thought that counts.