SU services, resources and tips

It's not unlikely that wellbeing will suffer as a result of the cost of living crisis, and we're often bombarded with wellbeing apps and resources that themselves cost money to use, which isn't always an option. However, there are lots of free wellbeing activities you can explore.

Struggling with the cost of living doesn't have to mean your social life suffers. Whether you're a social butterfly or more of an introvert, there are many underrated free and cheap activities in Sheffield that you can take part in.

Our Societies are run by students for students and cover a range of hobbies and shared interests, as well as academic societies which relate to the course you're studying. New societies are created each year so you're sure to find something that suits you. Find your people and meet your mates for life, develop new skills, or just unwind doing something you enjoy.

From student-led volunteering projects to community projects, the SU has a wide range of fulfilling and developmental volunteering opportunities to get involved with. Make friends, explore Sheffield, and build on your CV, all while making a positive impact in the community and having fun.

Our Give it a Go programme gives Hallam students the chance to explore Sheffield, make friends, and try something new with one-off sessions. Activities include trips, workshops, fitness classes, and more. You don't need to buy a membership for any of these sessions and all events and sessions are either free or for a minimal cost.

Whether you're into climbing, ice skating, or swimming, many venues offer cheaper entry to activities during non-peak times. These are typically during the week when most people are working, but these times can be ideal for students. Remember that you may also get a student discount on top of already cheaper entry.

We've launched the Activities Inclusion Fund which provides funding to students to help them participate in extracurricular activities such as Give it a Go opportunities, SU events, and society activity. Awards of up to £50 are available - apply for the fund or email r.powls@shu.ac.uk for more information.

External services and products

Eventbrite have listings for free events in and around Sheffield. The list is updated regularly and there's lots of different options both in the City Centre and further afield.

If you're aged 16-26, Sheffield Theatres offer £5 tickets to selected shows at the Lyceum, Crucible, and Playhouse. You'll need to sign up to their 'Live for 5' scheme, but once a member you'll have access to a variety of different performances throughout the year.

Sheffield has lots of free Art Galleries to explore. Site, Graves, and Millennium Gallery are just a few examples, with exhibitions changing regularly. There are many more around, and a quick Google search reveals many more options.

There are also free museums dotted around Sheffield, with some in the City Centre. Free museums include Weston Park and Kelham Island, which are both within walking distance of both City and Collegiate Campuses. You can find out more by visiting the Sheffield Museums website.

Welcome to Sheffield host events listings on their website, with lots to choose from. You can filter their events by a range tags such as festivals, special interests, and free events, so it's really easy to find something to do.

Tripadvisor have compiled a list of 60 free things to do in Sheffield. There's a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, with enough to tick off one per week for the entire year!

Information on this page out of date or something else wrong? Let us know by emailing studentrights@shu.ac.uk.