We've Officially Launched The Arts SU Student Basic Needs Project

We are excited to announce the official launch of the Student Basic Needs Project, which is a two-year strategic initiative dedicated to tackling critical barriers to student wellbeing and academic success across UAL! Officially launched at the 2025 Welcome Fair, the project represents a major step forward in reshaping how student support is understood and delivered to UAL students. The project is rooted in making sure that student voice directly shapes the trajectory of our work, which aims to identify and address unmet basic needs that directly impact students’ ability to thrive, both personally and academically. The project brings together research, advocacy, and student provision in collaboration with a wide range of university and community stakeholders. By combining these elements, we seek to foster long-term change that builds a more inclusive and equitable educational environment.

Our Focus Areas

Over the next two years, the project will focus on five key areas of need identified through our Basic Needs Survey, conducted in June 2025:

• Food Support - Expanding access to free food initiatives, including Nourish Boxes and continuing the Free Food Market.

• Art Supplies & Materials - Reducing material cost-related barriers and supporting creative practice. 

• Housing & Accommodation - Advocating for safe, affordable, and secure housing for all students.

• Travel & Transport - Exploring ways to make travel to and from campus more safe, accessible, and affordable.

• Destigmatisation, Research & Staff Resources – Promoting awareness, breaking stigma around accessing basic needs support, and equipping staff with the tools to support students effectively.

What's Next and How to Get Involved

Following this launch, we will be implementing various initiatives in food support, housing support, transportation support, art supplies and materials provision, and enhanced signposting to essential services across the two years.  This work will also be supported by continued research relating to student basic needs and the development of training for staff to embed systemic awareness across the institution. With our project plan moving into practice, Arts SU aims to establish a pioneering model of basic needs provision at one of the UK’s leading specialized institutions. 

Students, staff, and stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the Arts SU Student Basic Needs Project in multiple ways. Regular opportunities for involvement will be communicated through multiple platforms, including SU newsletters, social media, and various forms of targeted outreach. 

If you would like to express interest or request further information, please contact Margarita Marie Ronquillo, Student Basic Needs Coordinator, at m.ronquillo@su.arts.ac.uk.