How we can help you
We understand that if you identify as a GTRSB student, you may have additional questions and concerns about university. That’s why we offer dedicated, bespoke support to help you feel confident about your journey through Higher Education.
We’ll work closely with you to develop a tailored support package based on your individual circumstances and goals. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
We can offer help with:
- Attending university events – we can accompany you to Open Days, campus tours, Applicant Days, and interviews. We can even attend your graduation ceremony and help cover the cost of your gown and photo package.
- Social events – your opportunity to meet other GTRSB students and staff
- Arriving and settling in – support with moving into accommodation and getting to know the campus and local area
- Student finance and funding – guidance on applying for financial support, budgeting, and accessing additional funding you may be eligible for
- Studying and exams – we can help you during any stressful times by meeting up for a chat over a coffee, speaking to your tutor or Programme Leader on your behalf, and signposting you to relevant support services
- Employment – help with job searching, applications, and connecting with our careers service, whether you're looking for graduate opportunities or part-time work over the summer
- Mental health and wellbeing – access to professional support to look after your emotional wellbeing throughout your studies
- Ongoing personal support – we’ll be your central point of contact for any questions, concerns, or issues that may come up. You can meet with us in person, talk by phone, or connect via email or Microsoft Teams.
- Annual check-ins – we’ll meet with you at the start of each academic year to review your support and make sure you have everything you need.
Our aim is to help you make informed choices, feel part of our community, and reach your full potential – both academically and personally.
When you enrol online as part of the registration process, we'll ask if you identify as a GTRSB student. We respect your confidentiality, and our small team is the only people who’ll contact you. No one else within the University will be informed unless you choose to tell them. If you're unsure of what you may be eligible for, please contact us.
Financial support
We understand that some students may encounter money worries at some point during their studies, but you’re not alone. You may be entitled to:
- University of Sunderland Bursary – a £3,000 bursary awarded for each year of full-time study on an undergraduate course (this also applies to year 3 top-up students)
- Student Support Fund – a non-repayable hardship fund to help you with unexpected costs or serious financial problems
- Other scholarships and bursaries – we offer a range of other scholarships and bursaries you may be entitled to.
You can find out more information by visiting our scholarships and bursaries and financial support pages, or by contacting us.
Contact us
Wendy Price, Head of Widening Access and Participation, is our dedicated contact for GTRSB students, and is assisted by Nicola and Safeenah. Any contact is kept confidential, and your choices are always respected.
If you have any questions, you can contact the team on 0191 515 2216 or by email at gtrsb@sunderland.ac.uk(opens in new tab).
Financial support contacts
- Student Financial Guidance: 0191 515 2284 or studentfinancialguidance@sunderland.ac.uk(opens in new tab)
- Scholarships and Bursaries: 0191 515 2865 or scholarships@sunderland.ac.uk(opens in new tab).