Financial Support
Learner Support Fund and more….
If you are thinking of starting a course or you have already enrolled, you will need to consider the costs of attending College. But don’t let that put you off because there is a range of assistance available including:
Child Benefit/Child Tax Credit – if you are 16 + and studying full-time, your parents can continue to claim Child Benefit and Child Tax Credit for you until your 20th birthday or until the end of your course, whichever is sooner. Call the CB Helpline on 0845 302 1444 or the CTC Helpline on 0845 300 3900 for more information.
16-19 Bursary Fund – a discretionary fund for new applicants which replaces the EMA. It can help with the cost of books, equipment, meals and in some cases, transport.
Young people in care, care leavers, young people in receipt of Income Support and disabled young people in receipt of Employment Support Allowance who are also in receipt of Disability Living Allowance will be eligible for a Guaranteed Bursary.
In addition, continuing students who have been in receipt of £30 EMA payments in 2010-11 can get £20 a week and EMA recipients in 2009-10 can get the same payment in 2011-12.
Learner Support Fund for over 19s – a discretionary fund which is awarded for books, equipment, tools, kits, travel and extreme hardship.
Adult Learning Grant – if you are a new student starting in 2011-12 you won’t be able to get ALG but you may be able to apply for financial support from the Learner Support Fund. Current learners receiving ALG who are part way through their course will continue to receive payments during 2011-12.
Childcare Support – if you are under 20 years old you may be eligible for help with childcare costs through a scheme called Care to Learn. Call 0800 121 8989 or visit www.direct.gov.uk If you are over 20 there may be help through the Learner Support Fund.
Charitable Trusts – these organisations may be able to give financial assistance. We will help you to identify and apply to suitable trusts and charities through our membership of www.egas-online.org
Travel – if you are 16 – 18 years old and living in London you may be eligible for free travel on buses. Application forms for 16+ Oyster photocards are available from Post Offices. If you are over 18, an 18+ Student Oyster photocard will save you 30% on an adult Travelcard. You can apply on line at www.tfl.gov.uk
NUS Extra Card – you will be able to buy a National Union of Students discount card at a cost of £11 which will save you money at a variety of shops, eating places and other venues throughout the year.
Conditions apply to all the sources of funding outlined above. Full details of eligibility and application forms can be obtained from the Student Services office adjacent to Tower Road reception. Or you can contact the Learner Support Fund Co-ordinator on 01322 404003.
