Gypsy, Roma, Traveller, Showman and Boater (GTRSB) Students

Winchester is proud to be one of the first five universities to sign the GTRSB into Higher Education Pledge, demonstrating our commitment to improving access, participation and success for GTRSB students.

We understand that experiences such as interrupted education, discrimination, family or work commitments and travel patterns can impact a student’s journey into and through university.

We are committed to helping GTRSB students join the University, feel welcomed and access the support they need throughout their time at Winchester.

At the University of Winchester, we are committed to ensuring that GTRSB students can access higher education through inclusive, supportive and equitable pathways. 

Contextual Admissions and Supported Application Routes

As part of our Discover Winchester Scheme, eligible applicants may receive a contextualised offer of up to 16 UCAS points below the standard tariff range, and a Travel Bursary to support attendance at an Experience Winchester Day. 

At the University of Winchester, we are committed to providing a welcoming, supportive and empowering environment for all GTRSB students. We understand that students in these groups may face additional challenges, both financial and personal, and we aim to offer tailored support to help them thrive throughout their university journey.
 
All students who identify as GTRSB have access to a comprehensive package of support, including:

Dedicated Named Contact
 A specialist member of the Student Journey team provides consistent guidance from pre‑arrival through to graduation, helping students navigate university processes, settle into university life, access specialist services, and receive ongoing wellbeing and practical support. 

Wellbeing and Mental Health Support
 Students can access counselling and mental health services, attend wellbeing workshops or one‑to‑one sessions, and receive advice on managing stress, transitions and independence. 

Financial Support
GTRSB students may be eligible for the Widening Participation Bursary, which provides £750 per full time academic year, and depending on circumstances they can also access emergency hardship funds, the Winchester Employability Fund, guidance on Student Finance applications, and support with applying for external grants and charitable funding.

Further details about the funding available and how to apply is available on our Undergraduate Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards webpage.

Practical and Academic Support
We offer help with academic skills, budgeting and day‑to‑day planning, and we also provide guidance on careers development and support with finding part‑time employment.

For support or further information, please contact StudentSupport@winchester.ac.uk 

• Advisory Council for the Education of Romany and other Travellers - An organisation that supports the educational outcomes of Romany and Traveller children and young people through advocacy, guidance and specialist expertise.

• Friends, Families and Travellers - A national charity that works to advance the rights and inclusion of Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people and provides practical advice, advocacy and community support.

• The Traveller Movement - A leading charity that promotes equality and human rights for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities through policy work, research, advocacy and community projects.