Education, training, employment equipment
Depending on an assessment of your education or training needs, we will provide a grant of up to £225.00 per year to cover all of your equipment needs (for example, stationary, education visits, books and equipment).
You will so get an additional £75 if your educational trip includes an overnight stay. In addition, there is a one-off computer grant of up to £800.00 (£900.00 if NET of VAT) for those in full time further education at level 2 or above.
When you are starting a new job and if you need specific clothing or equipment for the job, you will be able to have a commencing work grant of up to £200.00.
If you are aged 16 to 19
You may also be eligible for the governments’ vulnerable young person’s bursary of £1,200.00 per year. This is paid by your sixth form, local college or training provider and is usually given as a weekly payment of £40.00 for 30 weeks. Your social worker or pathway advisor will help you to apply for the bursary.
If you are undertaking full time education, training, or you’re doing voluntary work and do not qualify for the 16 to 19 bursary, we will provide an equivalent bursary of £1,200.00 per year (i.e., a positive activity incentive) this is available up to the age of 18.
Lone parents returning to education (for under 20 year olds)
If you would like to return to education, you can get assistance from the ‘Care to Learn’ fund which can assist you with childcare costs.
Find out how to claim for the 'Care to Learn' fund (GOV.UK)
Apprenticeships
If you are undertaking an apprenticeship you will receive a £3,000.00 apprenticeship bursary that is provided by the organisation who is supporting you with the apprenticeship, the apprenticeship provider will also get £1,000.00 to help support you.
You will also be entitled to £200 towards your prom outfit.
Higher education
If you attend university your pathway advisor will help you apply for a number of loans and bursaries that are available to all students:
- £9,250.00 (up-to) per year tuition fee loan
- £13,348.00 per year maintenance loan - students studying in London
- £10,227.00 per year maintenance loan - students studying outside of London
In addition, we will provide support with study, living and accommodation costs and will also provide a range of grants to help you before you start studying and after you finish your studies. Some of these grants are linked to where you are studying and the type of course you are doing and in total are up to £5,500.00 per year (this includes a £500.00 grant when you finish your course), talk to your pathway advisor who will be able to explain what is available. The Higher Education Allowance is available for up to four years to help you with your studies.
You will also be support with up to £500 towards your graduation or £300 for a ceremony.
Post Graduate studies
We will also support you if you wish to undertake a programme of postgraduate studies and will provide a yearly set of grants up to £5,500.00 per year (this includes a £500.00 grant when you finish your course), talk to your pathway advisor who will be able to explain what is available.
Internet access support
If you are seeking employment and claiming Universal Credit you may be eligible for six months of free broadband internet access. Longer term, several broadband and mobile providers also have reduced rate tariffs (from around £10.00 per month) if you are claiming Universal Credit. If you are receiving a low wage or have a low income and don’t qualify for a reduced rate tariff, Children’s Service will provide six months of digital access if it is needed.
This may be provided via the Care Leavers Covenant Offer or directly by Cumberland Children’s Services. The care experienced team will help explore what may be available in your area and based on your circumstances.