A survey of nearly 2,000 students and apprentices has found increasing numbers are skipping meals and working longer hours to remain in education.

The NUS-USI report found 43% of respondents now skip meals to save money, up from 33% last year. One in ten said they had used a food bank in the past year.

Over half of students reported that paid work is harming their studies, with one-third of those who work putting in more than 20 hours per week.

More than a third said they have considered leaving their course because of mental health difficulties linked to financial strain. 27% said they worry about money constantly.

One in five students said they had gone without heating, and a quarter reported being unable to pay rent in full.

17% said they had missed classes because they could not afford transport costs.

Students will lobby MLAs at Stormont on Wednesday to press for higher maintenance support, affordable housing and better mental health services.