Cost of living support for staff

We are aware that the rising cost of living is impacting many of our staff and their families. We have a range of support in place to help you through this.

On

Pay

In 2023, the nationally agreed pay award (paid in February and August 2023) was 5 per cent for all staff, and up to 7 per cent for staff on lower grades.

In November 2023 we have continued to match the Voluntary Living Wage rates of £12 per hour by paying a supplement to individuals on our two lowest pay points which are below this rate. In Spring 2024, we will commence a review of our grade boundaries with our local trade unions. 

This builds on the work undertaken in 2022, when we worked collaboratively with our trade union colleagues to make changes to our grade boundaries, resulting in pay increases of up to 6.5 per cent for more than 5,000 of our colleagues. As part of this, we invested an additional £6.3 million per year into staff salaries. 

Working on campus

Many of us are now splitting our working hours between on campus and remote working. With utility costs rising, some colleagues may wish to work on campus more frequently to reduce their home bills.

We recognise that for some there may be costs such as those associated with travelling or other benefits associated with working from home, and this may not be a solution for everyone.

University staff are eligible for discounted parking in the NCP on Solly Street (S1 4DE) and the Q-Park on Durham Road (S10 2JA).

Colleagues travelling in to campus are welcome to use our free shower facilities. Find a list of these here.

Wellbeing support

We recognise that this may be an anxious time for many. If you need mental health or wellbeing support, the University offers a wide range of support services. 

Staff are able to access our in-house that offers specialist and confidential advice and support for staff experiencing mental health challenges and draws on tailored interventions appropriate to each individual's circumstances. 
 
It is important to note that the Staff Mental Health Adviser Service is not a crisis service. Staff in need of urgent or emergency support should access these .

New topic-based financial management webinars

In addition to the standard programme of financial and pension sessions (tailored to University pension schemes and your career stage), we are now offering shorter topic-based webinars including:

  • Savings and investments
  • Estate planning
  • Family finances
  • Understanding mortgages
  • Tips on managing your finances in rising cost of living

Whether you would like to join one or multiple of the webinars available don't miss out, spaces are limited.

Rewards and benefits

The Deal

The Deal is an online package of benefits for employees, which includes savings on healthcare, sustainable travel solutions, discounts, and shopping rewards. Other colleagues can nominate staff for vouchers of gifts through The Deal.

 (staff login required)

GeniUS rewards

You can get a 5 per cent loyalty bonus in our cafes and bars across campus and the residences if you register with the GeniUS reward scheme.

Earn rewards for sustainable travel

Through the BetterPoints app you can earn rewards for travelling to the University on foot, by bike or using public transport. The BetterPoints you earn are a digital currency that can be spent at University catering outlets, redeemed for high street vouchers, or donated to charity.

Get student discount with a TOTUM card

As a member of staff at the University you are eligible to purchase TOTUM membership. TOTUM is the new name for the NUS extra discount card, giving you access to hundreds of UK online and high street offers and discounts, including 10 per cent off in-store when you shop with Co-op Food.

You are also eligible for student bus fares on presentation of your TOTUM card with First or Stagecoach.

Useful links