In the course of this academic year, a sizeable body of evidence has been produced on the impact of the cost of living crisis on student academic performance, mental health and financial insecurity.
It makes for difficult but important reading. Research from Russell Group SUs tells us that students are being left with an average of £50 per month after paying for essentials.
It also states that 54 per cent of students believe their academic work is suffering as a result of cost of living pressures, making clear the link between rising costs and student outcomes and experiences in higher education.
However, we are still working to understand the specifics of that link. One under-examined aspect, which warrants closer attention, is the increase in student loneliness and isolation that is connected with, and often even directly caused by financial struggles.
