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Department of English and Related Literature
HomeDepartment of English and Related LiteratureAbout usEquality, diversity and inclusionWidening participation

Widening participation support

We believe the study of literature should be open to all. We value the unique perspectives brought by students from all backgrounds. This is why we're committed to alleviating the barriers to studying at University.

Widening participation refers to initiatives that support students who have faced barriers to entering higher education. These barriers may relate to coming from an area with low progression to university, having a lower-income background, or being the first in the family to enter higher education. The term also includes mature or independent students, those from racially minoritised groups, care-leavers, carers and students with disabilities.

We recognise the diverse and unique experiences these circumstances bring and want to ensure that all of our students feel supported during their time at university.

Departmental support

We have a dedicated Widening Participation Officer and a range of initiatives to support students to settle in and thrive in York. This includes financial assistance, academic guidance and community building.

Financial and practical support

  • Book bursaries and swaps
    We want to ensure you have the materials you need. You can apply for the Puckering Book Bursary twice a year to support the cost of course texts. Additionally, join us for our book swap events at the end of each semester to pick up required texts for future modules for free.
  • F.R. Leavis Fund
    Named after literary critic F.R. Leavis, the fund supports student-led educational initiatives. If you have an idea related to your degree or broader academic interests, you can apply by contacting the Fund Chair, Dr Nicola McDonald (nicola.mcdonald@york.ac.uk).

Writing support

  • Royal Literary Fund Fellow
    Refine your writing with professional support. Our Royal Literary Fund Fellow is a professional writer offering individual appointments to discuss all aspects of your academic writing.
  • Writer in Residence
    Explore your creativity with our Department's Writer in Residence, the multi-award-winning poet and creative non-fiction writer Anthony Vahni Capildeo. You can book an appointment in-person or via email (anthony.capildeo@york.ac.uk) to discuss creative writing or literary translation in any genre. 

Community and wellbeing

  • WP Tea and Biscuits
    Join us for our informal social event, held every semester, to connect with the rest of the Department’s widening participation community.
  • Peer mentoring
    Our students form small peer group clusters across years, offering the chance to support each other and share advice informally.

Community University of the Year

We’re proud to be named Community University of the Year by The Mail University Guide 2026, in celebration of our annual York Festival of Ideas.

Our community is more than a place for learning – it’s a force for positive change. 

We believe in bringing people together to make a meaningful impact, both locally in York and across the globe. With a vibrant community of students, staff, alumni and partners, we offer something for everyone. At York, there’s a place here for you.

Discover our award-winning community

Central University support

Alongside our own work to broaden participation, the University offers a wide range of central support. With tailored activities for younger learners, guidance for post-16 students exploring their next steps, and visits to schools and colleges, there’s support at every stage. 

Funding and financial support

  • Undergraduate funding
    The University offers a number of bursaries for students from low-income households, alongside scholarships for those who have overcome significant barriers to meet their educational goals.
  • Hardship Fund
    Assistance funding for students in financial difficulties.
  • York Futures scholarship 
    Financial and practical support for undergraduate home students to access employability experiences, such as funding travel expenses to a networking event.
  • Student project funding
    Supported by alumni, this Fund helps launch student-led project, such as community initiatives run by student societies.

Career development and work experience