Midway through studying for my degree in Sports and Exercise Science at Newcastle University I encountered a challenge that risked unsettling my studies and my enjoyment of student life.
I was renting a house with some friends and the tenancy was taken over by a new landlord part of the way through our contract. We ended up in very messy situation when we were confused about which landlord we should be paying. When the local council visited the property, they informed us we were living in a house of multiple occupancy (HMO) and it was not licensed when it should be.
I was extremely worried about the impact that this would have financially on myself and my other flatmates – and I was anxious that we could find ourselves homeless! I didn’t know which way to turn as I had never encountered anything like this.
Expert help and guidance
Thankfully, I could access expert help at Newcastle University Students’ Union Advice Centre who were able to put my mind at ease. Ruth Gibson, the advice worker, was amazing. She took me through step by step what I needed to do to make a rent repayment order. It was a long drawn out process over six months before it went to tribunal. Without Ruth’s help, my studies would have been severely impacted as the situation caused me a lot of stress and worry. Ruth helped me gather all the evidence I needed to make a successful appeal to the tribunal. The landlord settled and we were able to claim all the money back that was owed to us.
Support for student challenges
Ruth’s advice was spot on. She was reassuring and put me at my ease through every step of the process. I feel so fortunate to have access to the support offered at Newcastle University Students’ Union Advice Centre. I would say to any student who is struggling with any aspect of student life to seek out the support they offer. It can help settle your mind and give you expert advice so that you can concentrate on your studies and enjoy university life to the full.
I was able to complete my degree and I now have a full-time job at Newcastle University as the Intramural Sport Officer, encouraging students and staff to get involved in all aspects of sports and fitness at the university. I combine that with working in a local gym and as a Personal Trainer. It’s a great job – and keeps me fit as well! I am very grateful for the support Ruth and staff at the Newcastle Students’ Union gave me – it was the helping hand I needed to get me through a worrying time.