New research from Experian finds that over half (54%) of UK students have taken up running to improve their mental health
78% of students say money worries are causing them stress1
Jonny Davies, mental health advocate and ultra-runner, has partnered with Experian to host ‘Run for Your Money’ at the University of Nottingham on Sunday 27th October, combining a fun run and free financial workshop for the student community
London, UK – October 27th 2024 – New Experian research has found money worries to be impacting the mental health of students on campus, with one third (33%) of those who feel anxious saying that their experience is being affected because they can’t afford to go out and meet friends. Three in ten (30%) said worrying about money was affecting their sleep and 13% said it had already affected their grades.
In response, Experian has launched ‘Run for Your Money’, a new initiative that tackles financial and physical fitness for students. Hosted at the University of Nottingham, the run will be led by long distance ultra-runner and mental health advocate, Jonny Davies. This run aims to not only provide students with support on their financial worries, but also give them a free place to meet and destress through physical activity – highlighting the connection between physical and financial wellbeing.
The activity is also supporting student wellbeing, with over half (54%) saying that they have taken up running to improve their mental health2, and 56% feel that it helps them alleviate stress and clear their minds2.
Jonny Davies, mental health advocate and ultra-runner, comments: “There is a lot to juggle when you’re a student, adjusting to living away from home for the first time, whilst finding time to study, socialise, and manage your finances can be stressful. I always found, and still do, running a great way to relieve stress and help improve my mental health; it helps you accomplish a challenge and it’s a great way to meet new people. Chatting to friends whilst running side-by-side helps us open up about difficult subjects, that’s why the ‘Run for Your Money’ campaign is not only providing a space for students to get free guidance about money but also giving them the opportunity to have those conversations with each other.”
Over two fifths (43%) of students believe that running with friends can help them to approach conversations about finances they would otherwise find awkward2. This comes amid increasing financial pressures on students, with the majority (61%) saying a part-time job is essential to manage university expenses2.
John Webb, credit expert at Experian, said: “Being skint as a student has long been the case, but our research has highlighted that stress and anxiety caused by money worries is impacting their university experience like never before. 1 in 7 students are likely to drop out of uni because of money worries, so our ‘Run for Your Money’ campaign aims to provide access to the financial guidance they so desperately need. We’ve partnered with NASMA, a charity whose free money advisors are available to students across the UK, with the ambition that this initial event in Nottingham will be the first of many universities we’ll be visiting nationwide. The campaign is intended to help students make it across the university finish line, as well as to equip them with good money habits at this formative life stage, which will enable better outcomes for them beyond university too.”
While universities have support available, many students (64%) express a desire for more regular financial guidance clinics on campus2. Many students are also now opting for free and healthy activities over nightlife, with more than half (52%) of students saying that they would rather go running than clubbing or going out2. Additionally, 45% are considering joining running clubs so that they can socialise without spending money at university2.
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Notes
The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2,001 UK university students (aged 18+). The data was collected between 23.08.2024 and 29.08.2024. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council.
1. ‘Quite anxious’, ‘Very anxious’, and ‘I'm anxious all of the time’ answers combined.
2. ‘Somewhat agree’ and ‘Strongly agree’ answers combined.
About Experian
Experian is a global data and technology company, powering opportunities for people and businesses around the world. We help to redefine lending practices, uncover and prevent fraud, simplify healthcare, deliver digital marketing solutions, and gain deeper insights into the automotive market, all using our unique combination of data, analytics and software. We also assist millions of people to realise their financial goals and help them to save time and money.
We operate across a range of markets, from financial services to healthcare, automotive, agrifinance, insurance, and many more industry segments.
We invest in talented people and new advanced technologies to unlock the power of data and innovate. As a FTSE 100 Index company listed on the London Stock Exchange (EXPN), we have a team of 22,500 people across 32 countries. Our corporate headquarters are in Dublin, Ireland. Learn more at experianplc.com