A short summary of our project
The Kingston Belonging Fund follows a sponsoring students approach, helping students who cannot afford society memberships, sports or activities to take part. Your support gives a student access to community, friendships and opportunities that improve their wellbeing and academic success.
Who are we?
My name is Canon (CK) Manuel and I serve as Vice President at Kingston University Students’ Union. Together with the Students’ Union team, I have been working to strengthen our student community through societies, sports clubs and activities, spaces where students build friendships, confidence and a real sense of belonging.
Through working closely with students, we recognised a common issue: many students want to get involved but simply cannot afford memberships, equipment or participation costs. For them, university can become lectures and coursework only, without the friendships and support networks that make the experience meaningful.
The Kingston Belonging Fund was created with a student student Sponsorship approach. Your support directly helps a student take part in a club, attend an event or join a team they would otherwise miss out on. It removes financial barriers and replaces isolation with connection.
Together with our staff, society committees and student volunteers, we are committed to ensuring every student has the opportunity to join in, support one another and truly feel that Kingston is a place they belong, not just a place they study.
Our story
As Vice President at Kingston University Students’ Union, I regularly speak with students across campus and at events. I noticed a clear difference: students involved in societies and sports were happier, more confident and more engaged. However, many students told me they wanted to join but couldn’t afford memberships, equipment or event costs.
Together with the Students’ Union team, we created the Kingston Belonging Fund as a “Sponsor a Student” initiative. The fund removes financial barriers and allows students to take part in activities where they can build friendships, confidence and a support network.
For many, these activities are not just social they are often the reason they remain at university and succeed in their studies.
University should be more than lectures and assignments. Every student deserves the chance to feel included and part of a community.
By donating, you are not simply funding activities you are sponsoring a student and giving them the opportunity to belong at Kingston.
Where will the money go?
Every contribution will go directly towards supporting students through a transparent and fair application process.
The Kingston Belonging Fund will support:
Membership fees (up to 100%) — removing financial barriers to joining clubs and societies • Equipment and kit (up to 75%) — allowing students to participate safely and with confidence • Social and activity costs (up to 50%) — helping students stay connected and involved
Every contribution will help ease financial pressure on students, giving them the opportunity to take part, build friendships, and feel part of the Kingston community.
By removing these barriers, students can focus on what truly matters: enjoying their university experience, developing confidence, and growing through shared experiences.
