Last updated: 4 August 2026
Financial challenges for universities
Universities across the country are facing financial challenges. These are largely outside of our control and are due to:
- increasing costs because of inflation
- rising pension and energy costs
- an undergraduate student fee that has remained the same for a decade
- Government decisions meaning fewer international students are applying to study in the UK
Our cost-saving measures
Over the last two years the University has been able to make £60m of savings through a combination of:
- voluntary severance, where a staff member chooses to leave the University
- restructuring leadership and management roles
- vacancy management, where we don’t replace a role when someone leaves
- other savings, such as on buildings and contract management
Cost-saving progress
In 2026/27, we need to save a further £26.6m. This is the final year of a three-year strategic reset designed to ensure we are financially stable in the long term.
We worked through our proposals with the University and College Union (UCU) and other recognised trade unions.
To contribute to the savings needed, we are now implementing these changes:
- New academic staffing model
The new College structures are now being implemented. We are changing our staffing mix so there are fewer senior lecturers and more academic tutors.
This will help manage future staff costs and allow more time with students.
- Closing some campus cafes
With fewer people using these facilities, we have closed Cantor, Head Post Office, Redmires and Robert Winston Building.
Five cafes remain open and those closed will be repurposed for student use.
- Collegiate Nursery now closed
There were fewer children using Collegiate Nursery, with only a small number from Hallam students (five) and staff (eight).
It has been running at a loss for several years, which we can’t afford.
- Voluntary severance scheme
A voluntary severance scheme has seen around 200.
What this means for you
Your studies will not be disrupted and you will continue to benefit from our award-winning teaching and support. Any changes will not affect your ability to continue with your course or access support:
Changes to the academic staffing model would mean teaching staff will have more student-facing time, and there is flexibility for online, evening and summer teaching.
Remaining cafés across both campuses will still be open offering good value food. Closed cafés will evolve into spaces where you can bring your own food. We will work with the Students’ Union on how these spaces are designed.
Accessing support
We understand that some of these changes may be worrying. Please reach out for support and guidance:
