Queen Mary University and Newham Council Partnership
In the past year, our collaboration with Newham Council and Queen Mary University has been instrumental in addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by international students, who have no recourse to public funds, amidst the post-pandemic cost of living crisis. Through a mixed-methods approach, we collected both qualitative and quantitative data to gain a comprehensive understanding of the lived experiences of these students and focus group discussions. Additionally, we organised knowledge exchange and policy workshops that brought together over fifty key stakeholders from various sectors, including voluntary organisations, councils, and academic institutions.
Our research highlighted the significant financial, social, and emotional hardships that international students endure. Despite contributing substantially to the UK economy and the cultural fabric of universities, these students often face precarious living conditions, food insecurity, and mental health challenges. The pandemic and subsequent economic challenges severely limited job opportunities, exacerbating their financial instability. Our findings highlighted the critical need for targeted support systems, improved communication from universities, and better mental health services tailored to cultural needs.
Our project built on this evidence by fostering a community of practice among stakeholders to develop and implement support strategies for international students. We advocate for policy interventions such as removing international students from migration targets, revising visa policies, and enhancing the financial support mechanisms within universities. Furthermore, we propose greater collaboration between universities and local authorities to address housing issues and leverage community resources effectively. By continuing this collaborative approach, we seek to ensure that international students receive the comprehensive support they need to thrive academically and socially in the UK.
In the past year, our collaboration with Newham Council and Queen Mary University has been instrumental in addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by international students, who have no recourse to public funds, amidst the post-pandemic cost of living crisis. Through a mixed-methods approach, we collected both qualitative and quantitative data to gain a comprehensive understanding of the lived experiences of these students and focus group discussions. Additionally, we organised knowledge exchange and policy workshops that brought together over fifty key stakeholders from various sectors, including voluntary organisations, councils, and academic institutions.
Our research highlighted the significant financial, social, and emotional hardships that international students endure. Despite contributing substantially to the UK economy and the cultural fabric of universities, these students often face precarious living conditions, food insecurity, and mental health challenges. The pandemic and subsequent economic challenges severely limited job opportunities, exacerbating their financial instability. Our findings highlighted the critical need for targeted support systems, improved communication from universities, and better mental health services tailored to cultural needs.
Our project built on this evidence by fostering a community of practice among stakeholders to develop and implement support strategies for international students. We advocate for policy interventions such as removing international students from migration targets, revising visa policies, and enhancing the financial support mechanisms within universities. Furthermore, we propose greater collaboration between universities and local authorities to address housing issues and leverage community resources effectively. By continuing this collaborative approach, we seek to ensure that international students receive the comprehensive support they need to thrive academically and socially in the UK.