Budgeting

Do yourself a favour and draw up a budget. In one column put in all your out goings, that's rent, electricity, gas, phone (including mobile!), transport (day to day and going home, whether you have a car or use the bus), food (be sensible budget about £15 per week for this, you'll end up ill if you think you can survive off of cheese on toast).

If you smoke put this in too. In the opposite column put in all the money you have coming in. This can include the money for your rent that your parents give you, and any other allowances you may get. If you have more outgoings than incomings then have a look at where you can save some money, if that simply isn't possible than you're going to need to get a job.

The important thing about this budget is that it's FOR YOU and you alone so BE HONEST.

Cost of Living

The cost of living doesn't have to be high. Take advantage of student discounts everywhere you can (shops like Topshop and HMV offer at least 10% NUS discount, and many bars and restaurants have student deals), and look out for the cheaper drinks and food at the Students' Union.

It's helpful to try and stick to a budget for each week, accounting for food, going out and so on, so you can keep track of your hard-earned cash! Remember to budget for course costs, textbooks, field trips and even things like stationery can be expensive. The Advice and Development Manager (in the Union) is always available to give financial help and advice if you have any problems during the year.

Student Services

Student Services is there to offer advice on financial matters and they also hold the purse strings for the Access Fund and Loans, so if you are in dire straits so please don't suffer in silenceÂ…they really are friendly and want to help. If you need any advice or just want to come in and chat about your money, you can go and visit them

The Student Debtline

If you are in a crisis about money and need to talk to someone urgently, The Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS) have set up a help-line which aims to reduce the number of students who give up studying because of debt or fear of debt.

The number to call is 0800 328 1813.

Lines are open 8am-8pm, Monday to Friday.