I am sooooo happy right now! I applied for a hardship payment from my university right at the start of term, and they have faffed around no end. It didn't look very positive but I've just had a phone call to say they've allocated me a decent sum Not that I'll see it, it shall go straight to my landlord, but how fantastic not have to worry daily about my rent for a few months! I am very impressed at how sensibly I am planning to spend it too, rent and bills are priority. My faith in the system is restored! I can finish my degree and also afford to eat the occasional meal apart from baked beans They don't always advertise these funds very well, so if you're struggling it's well worth speaking to someone at uni/college, they really are there to help. Right, now I'm off to do a little dance.......