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Winchester Student Union Activities Participation Fund

 

Winchester Student Union recognises that some students encounter financial barriers to taking part in our activity groups (sports teams, societies, and representational networks). We believe that participating in our activities is an important part of extra-curricular life at Winchester, enhancing both wellbeing and learning while at university, and that no student should feel like they cannot take part or are at a disadvantage due to financial hardship.

 

What is the fund?

The Activities Participation Fund is provided with support from the University of Winchester and managed by Winchester Student Union. The fund is to support students who are in need of additional financial support in order for them to access opportunities for participation in extra-curricular activities provided by the Student Union to enrich the student experience.

There are so many benefits to joining an activity group, and they also offer the unique opportunity to create connections and network with other students. By providing this fund we aim to ensure that the opportunity to join and become a member is available to all students.

 

Eligibility - who can apply?

You are eligible to apply if you are a currently enrolled student at the University of Winchester who is facing a financial barrier to participating in one or more activity groups. All students will be required to fill in an application form. To ensure we are supporting those most in need, students should only apply if they are in financial hardship or face additional challenges.

Students can apply for an amount up to a maximum of £100, and only one grant will be awarded to a student in one academic year. Winchester Student Union have a restricted amount of money to give out and so even if your application is successful, we can’t guarantee you will receive the full amount you have requested.

 

What areas can I request support from the fund for?

Examples of what you can apply for support with include (but are not limited to):

  • Full or partial cover of membership fee to a sports team, society or representational network

  • Purchase of essential specialist items to take part in an activity group, e.g. competition kit, sports hijab, etc.

  • Additional costs to taking part in an activity group as a result of a disability or additional need

  • Costs related to tournament or competition fees

  • Equipment which helps to make your activity group more inclusive and accessible

Examples of what can’t be included would include (but not limited to) a gym membership, leisurewear or any social events/trips etc.

 

Selection process

The fund will be allocated on a first come, first served basis based on the need outlined in each application. When assessing applications, the panel will consider the eligibility criteria alongside the following:

  • Has the applicant provided a clear rationale for applying for support to take part in Students' Union led sports or activities?

  • Is the applicant facing circumstances that are preventing them from taking part in their chosen activity?

  • How important is receiving support so that the applicant can participate?

All applicants will receive a decision by email, giving the reason why the application was approved or rejected. We will aim to let applicants know the outcome within 1 week of their application if submitted during term time. (During vacation periods there may be a delay due to Union closure days/staffing.) The decision of the panel is final.

Successful applicants will be provided with the confirmed amount that will be allocated to you (this may be different to the amount requested in your application), along with a link to an online claims form. You will then be able to purchase your membership fees/kit/equipment etc. as outlined in your application and complete the claims form which will allow the agreed funds to be transferred to your personal bank account. Evidence and/or receipts will be required as part of the claims form - to ensure the allocated money is only used as agreed in the application.

 

Application Form

The panel will review each application on a case-by-case basis. Please note that there is limited funding available, and the application process is competitive. As such, not all applications will be successful and we cannot commit to funding every application, even if eligibility is met. Receiving an award in a previous year does not guarantee that you will receive one again.

 

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