Welfare Advocacy
Welfare issues are those which affect your wellbeing as a student and may also impact negatively on your academic performance. They may affect you emotionally, physically, financially or mentally. Common welfare issues include:
Money - Not being able to afford food, water, transport, course materials etc.
Harassment - From family, friends, peers or even university staff
Accommodation - Tenancy issues, flatmate problems, housing quality
Other Issues
Prevention is of course the best solution for these problems so act early! Take good care of yourself and come to us for advice and support before things get out of hand. We can also refer you to other university services or outside organisations that specialise in dealing with specific welfare issues outside of the student arena. Click below to book an appointment, we'll be in touch soon!
Hardship Grants
For certain extraordinary cases Massey University runs a Student Assistance Program (SAP) for students whose financial position is:
Unforeseen, and of a temporary nature
Unusual or severe; and
Threatens your continued study at Massey University.
One-off grants can usually be approved up to a maximum of $500
Students can apply once per semester and will need to demonstrate a genuine hardship that is impairing their ability to meet basic living costs e.g., rent, food, power.
Hardship grants cannot be used to pay Massey course fees. To be eligible for assistance, students must be in New Zealand.
SAP Fund (Apply via Portal)
We know that for many students things are really tough going at the moment and so if you have a temporary need, we may be able to help you out with a Minor Hardship Grant (MHG)
You can apply for a MHG grant once per semester up to a maximum amount of $150
You will need to provide proof of enrolment at Massey University.
Minor Hardship/Food Grant
Flatting & Tenancy Advice
Where and how you live is extremely important.
You might be living away from home for the first time which can be a steep learning curve; there are pitfalls and problems associated with accommodation that can become stressful and financially draining should something go wrong.
The good news is that many accommodation issues can be prevented by some sound and common-sense preparedness.
The Tenancy services website is packed with all sorts of advice, videos, and templates that you can use for establishing a flatting or tenancy agreement. Understanding the differences between being a tenant and being a flatmate and whether you have a fixed term or periodic rental agreement is key to making sure you get the accommodation that will suit your circumstances.
If you find yourself with a flatting problem that is affecting your study, we can help you negotiate your way through your problems.
Before you come along to meet us:
Collate and be ready to provide any evidence you have relating to the issue (e.g., tenancy agreement, bills, photographs).
Request help below to book an appointment.
Consent & Sexual Harm
We understand it takes a lot of courage to come forward about your experience of Sexual Harm. There are many people who are here to support you, including our Advocates.
Our Advocates
Our Advocates are here to listen to you, support you and help you understand where you go from here. You can get in touch with our Advocacy Team.
Student Health and Counselling
Student Health and Counselling provide health care and counselling support for students who are survivors of sexual violence.
Click here to make an appointment with a counsellor.
Safe to Talk Sexual Harm Helpline
https://safetotalk.nz/ or call 0800 044 334