A third £400 ‘goodwill’ payment has been offered to students away from Lancs

In an email from Lancaster University’s accommodation services, it has been announced that a third £400 “goodwill” payment will be available to eligible students.

Having already offered two previous payments of £400 each to students unable to return to campus accommodation during lockdown, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Andy Schofield, informed students that following the roadmap out of lockdown, a further rent reduction will be offered. The email said: “The University’s governing group, Council, has approved a further goodwill payment of £400 to those students who are not currently occupying accommodation and are unable to return to rooms due to the latest government guidelines.”

It was also reiterated that students are able to return to their on-campus accommodation for a handful of reasons. Schofield wrote: “As I’ve indicated previously, if you have not yet returned to campus and need to do so because of lack of facilities to engage with online learning, for the sake of your mental health or other aspects of your wellbeing, then this is permitted and your campus room remains available.”

Also mentioned in the email were the various university support teams, such as the additional funding available to “those facing financial challenges, with all students eligible to apply” alongside the Counselling and Mental Health services.

The Vice-Chancellor concluded: “I know this continues to be a very challenging time, and like you, look forward to a return to normality which appears to be getting much closer. For now, I hope you and your family and friends are safe and well, and wish you all the very best.”

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