Covid-19 testing at Greenwich University. PA Wire The University of Greenwich has made one-off payments of £1,000 available to students in private-rented accommodation during lockdown if they can prove financial hardship . This comes as universities across England and Wales have come under pressure from student unions to offer at least partial refunds on accommodation, as well as a growing January rent strike among students. Greenwich University say £244,000 is to be made available to private renters studying at the university during the pandemic. The south east London university have made the new, £1,000 hardship fund available as a one-off payment from January 18. The money will help students in halls and private accommodation who can prove financial hardship.