Bournemouth University and SUBU have been shortlisted in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2026.
The categories they have been nominated in are “Students’ Union” and the submission-based category which for this year relates to “Cost of Living Support”.
BU’s submission recognised its work to support estranged students, led in collaboration between the Student Support and Fundraising Teams.
The support package for estranged students at BU now includes summer accommodation and living expenses grants, to help cover the costs of the summer holidays; a Christmas campaign, supported by staff, graduates and other donors, to provide each student with a £50 gift voucher; and grants for final-year estranged students, to help them prepare for employment.
BU has also increased the bursary for estranged students to bring it in line with that of care leavers.
Whatuni supports student decision making as a comparison site for universities, with reviews and contributions from current students. The Whatuni Student Choice Awards is the only UK higher education event where awards are voted for and judged entirely by students.
Alison Honour, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of BU shares “Supporting all our students with the cost of living is a priority for us and it is rewarding to be recognised for our support we provide to estranged students, who may not always have the level of support they need.
“It means a lot to us that our nomination has been chosen for the shortlist by a panel of students.
“We’re incredibly grateful for all our students who provided their feedback and views to the Whatuni Awards Team.”
Andy Squire, Chief Executive of SUBU shared “We’re incredibly proud to be shortlisted for Best Students’ Union, whilst retaining our position as the best Students’ Union in the South West.
“Whatever the final result, to be recognised as a top 10 Students’ Union in the UK is a huge achievement. It's a powerful reflection of our commitment to make BU students the happiest in the country.
“A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to share their thoughts through the WhatUni survey – we can’t wait to hear the final result!”
This year’s Whatuni Student Choice Award winners will be announced on Thursday 21 May 2026 at a ceremony in London. Winners will be published on the Whatuni site with a breakdown of all categories and survey responses.
