Four ways Scottish Politics affects student lives
By Christopher Coyle
Students have a discussion || image by Edwin Tan via Getty Images
No-one is immune from the world of politics, but some may be more affected than others. Scotland has a lot of unique political policies that can impact students in a positive and beneficial way. However, it’s not all plain sailing.
These are main concerns that students face.
Free Tuition
Education can be stressful enough but imagine having to pay to stay in your class. Scotland’s UK neighbours in England, Northern Ireland and Wales, require students to pay up to £5,000 a year, in some cases up to £9,000.
This is a worry Scottish students can be glad they don’t have, as they avoid the potential financial crisis because their studies are supported by SAAS funding for the year. Annually, SAAS hands over £1 billion in support for students.
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Free Bus Travel
Scotland introduced free bus travel for older and disabled people back in 2006, although younger people would have to wait until 2022 before they were included in the scheme. Since then, over 800,000 young people in Scotland benefit from using the free bus pass.
Scotland is seen as one of the only countries in the world with free bus travel for younger people. This is a great policy because it gives a cheaper alternative to the train for students travelling to college and university.
A trainee pharmacy staff member puts in order medications in drawers and shelves at the Monklands University Hospital || image by Andy Buchanan via Getty Images
Free Healthcare/Prescriptions
Healthcare has been a well-known problem across the world, with many families and individuals drowning in medical bills. While here in Scotland, people even have free access to hospitals and prescriptions.
This gives Scottish people one less thing to worry about financially. Unfortunately waiting times rise due to this policy as people can be at a hospital for up to four hours before they are seen.
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Mental Health Service Waits
Mental health services in Scotland have taken a big hit over recent years, with waiting times rising from three to four weeks before they receive proper care and support.
For people struggling with mental health issues, it’s crucial they receive the needed support.
Younger people may struggle with the workload of university and college and suffering from long waiting times can negatively impact their workload in their course.
Some policies are better than others. However, it’s important to appreciate all the brilliant policies that give students the opportunity to learn and thrive every week