More than 34,000 free meals offered by Fife College in bid to make college affordable

Free lunches were introduced by the college earlier this year in response to the cost of living crisis. These lunches were in addition to the long-standing free breakfast offer for students.

NUS Scotland reported in February that more than half of college and university students in Scotland were skipping meals to save money.

Vicki Anton, head of student experience at Fife College, said: “We firmly believe that every student deserves an equal opportunity to succeed, regardless of their financial circumstances. Our support measures, including the provision of free meals and loaned devices, have had a profoundly positive impact on our students, helping them focus on their studies without worrying about their basic needs. We will remain committed to helping our students during the cost-of-living crisis, reassuring them that the college will continue to offer them the support they need to succeed in their studies.”

The free meals are part of a range of complimentary offerings from the college. Other measures include free bus travel, for those under 22, free gym sessions at the College’s Kirkcaldy campus, and free/discounted haircuts and beauty treatments. The College has also made available 15,000 free device loans during the year as part of the College’s wide range of support measures to make coming to college affordable. The College’s Guidance team are also available to discuss any personal issues or financial concerns students may have.