Discretionary Funding for Further Education

What is DISCRETIONARY FUNDING?
This is a Government grant to eligible students. It is paid each term direct to the student be used to help pay for travel, books/equipment, and additional costs etc. An DF Grant is only available for 2 academic years, the current rate is £150 per term.

Who is eligible?
The student must be:

• In full-time education
• AGED 16-19 yrs
• Experiencing financial hardship

There are agreed criteria with the Learning and Skills Council as to eligibility for Grants.

Families who are BENEFIT DEPENDENT are eligible i.e.

• Homeless/vulnerable students (those not able to live in the family home) and Disabled Students take priority.
• receive INCOME SUPPORT or WORKING FAMILY TAX CREDIT
• Other families who are experiencing financial hardship may be considered in certain circumstances.

How and when do I apply for a grant?

• Application forms are available from the Finance Office. Please telephone (01704-530601) for advice. Students should collect the form from the office on the first day of term.
• Completed forms together with up to date evidence of Benefits MUST be returned by the closing date. Late applications may only be considered in exceptional circumstances.
• Applications will be processed in 10 WORKING DAYS. Notices are published in the daily BULLETIN when cheque's are ready.
• Applicants are not normally interviewed.
• Renewal of grant in January and April depends on having made satisfactory academic progress and to have achieved a 90% attendance. Those students who fail these criteria will be interviewed by a member of the Senior Management team.
  
  How do I APPEAL about a decision?
  If you wish to make an appeal against a decision please write to the CHAIR OF THE APPEALS COMMITTEE at the College. All Appeals will be dealt with in 10 working days.