THE University of Bradford has launched an appeal for the public to help support its students and their families from the financial impact of the pandemic.

The Emergency Covid-19 Hardship Appeal has been set up, as the university says it will not allow the pandemic to jeopardise its students’ futures.

Its money team has seen a 107 per cent increase in applications for hardship funding and the university has responded to as many students as possible, with small grants and food parcels, but we now need your support.

A message from Professor Shirley Congdon, the university’s vice-chancellor, said: “Unemployment and poverty in Bradford has risen drastically since March.

“This is having a direct impact on its students, many of whom depend upon part time work to cover the cost of basic needs like food and accommodation for themselves and their families.

“More than half of its students come from the four poorest socio-economic groups, so a crisis like Covid-19 can have devastating effects both now and long into the future.”

“As we know, this is not a normal year and some of our students are experiencing severe hardship.

“With your support, we can keep them in education and allow them to build the future they deserve.

To support the Emergency Covid-19 Hardship Appeal, go to intouch.bradford.ac.uk/public/donate