Students in crisis: Scottish students are struggling to pay their rent
By Shannon Walker
Many students in Scotland are struggling to pay rent according to a new poll by the National Union of Students (NUS).
A poll by the National Union of Students revealed that 34% of people who responded struggle to pay rent even with financial support.
Students report that even with a job it is equally hard to pay rent and still have enough money left to afford food and other necessities.
The poll also revealed that 19% of students have had to use a food bank or skip meals to be able to afford their rent.
While others reported that their living conditions are less than ideal, with 42% reporting that they have had issues with mold or mildew. 41% reported that they have had issues with heating and 37% reporting they have had issues with plumbing.
By Catherine McQueen
A student who wished to remain anonymous said: “My rent is super high, but I don't really struggle.”
Inez, an art student at City of Glasgow College, said: “I don't have issues to be honest.”
Helen McCool, a student at City of Glasgow College said: “before I became a student, I was working two part time jobs, and I found it easier then but now because I am not working as much I just manage and am able to pay my rent. I tend to not take public transport and just walk instead.”
By benedek via Getty Images
All over Scotland rent prices are on the rise, the Scottish government plans to make a bill controlling rent but it may not come soon enough.
NUS says that “poor living conditions means poor grades. With students prioritizing working over their education to pay their rent and school fees, they risk their grades dropping or being removed from the course.
“Homelessness in Scotland has risen dramatically with levels reaching higher than pre covid numbers.
“Students are vulnerable to the cost of living but are receiving minimal help with no assistance from the government and the number of people attending higher education will drop dramatically.”