Introduction

You may find it very daunting going to university, and even more so if you have children, as the financial situation can often seem impossible. Don't worry; as there are many different organisations that are willing to help students with children, it is just a case of knowing where to look and what to apply for.

Until recently students have not been able to apply for social security benefits while studying. The government has now introduced some new "Tax Credits" which anybody can apply for.

Before you get to university

• Get a copy of the DfES booklet "Childcare Grant and Other Support for Student Parents in Higher Education" - available from universities and LEAs
• It is essential that you apply to the Inland Revenue for your Tax Credits before coming to university. These benefits are replacing several grants that used to be available, and are used to assess how much you are now entitled to from the LEA in terms of loans and grants.
• Complete your application forms for the LEA early, so you don't risk arriving at university with no funding.
• If you are going to need childcare (including before and after school clubs) make arrangements as soon as you can, as places are often limited.
• Think carefully about your childcare needs in relation to your hours of study at the university.
• You may be required to go on a placement that is outside of normal working hours, or is a greater distance away from your home creating longer travelling times. Find out how this will affect your childcare costs and make sure you include this on all of your applications for financial assistance.
• Remember that school holidays and university terms often fall on different dates, so make your childcare provider is aware of this.
• If you are going to going to use a childminder make sure they are 'Registered' - a list is usually available from you Local Education Authority (ask for the Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership)

On your course

• Make an early application (in the first term) to Access to Learning Fund at the university you are attending to assist with extra help with childcare costs.
• Speak to Student Services about applying to trusts and charities as you will have greater success with your application with a reference from a financial advisor.
• You may find that your lectures change at the beginning of the year or when semesters change - check that your childminder or nursery can be flexible. Also, think about 'work experience' that may cause you to increase the numbers of hours your child is looked after.
• If you have pre-school aged children you may be eligible to receive Nursery Vouchers from the Government - your nursery should be able to tell you more about this.

Moving On

Use the university Careers Service to help look for careers and employment - they should be able to advise you about issues relating to employment law, etc.

When applying for jobs consider childcare arrangements - Near home? Near work? Is there a nursery at the workplace?

Top of page