UK universities are warning that continued funding pressures could force cuts to hardship support and outreach to disadvantaged students. An anonymous poll of vice-chancellors by Universities UK (UUK) found that nearly a third would cut hardship support within the next three years if the fiscal situation persists. The same survey signals broader workforce risk: more than two-thirds of leaders said they would reduce staff jobs through compulsory redundancy if difficulties continue, while nearly 90% anticipate hiring freezes or voluntary redundancies. The findings underscore the operational squeeze on student success services as institutions plan budgets amid uncertainty.