Students experiencing hardship over summer as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic can now apply for funding if they are struggling to meet accommodation and other costs.
Backed by £20 million of new SNP Government funding, students in financial hardship can apply directly to their college or university’s Coronavirus Discretionary Fund.
The SNP Government has also committed to review the future of summer support and the availability of funds will be monitored to ensure support remain available to students throughout summer.
This latest funding package takes total support for students since the start of the pandemic to more than £96 million.
Higher and Further Education Minister Jamie Hepburn MSP said:
“The pandemic has impacted students significantly and not only has there been disruption to their education, many students face financial difficulties with accommodation, associated costs or challenges in securing employment.
”This additional £20 million will help to alleviate the financial pressure and stress facing many of our students over the summer period.
“The Student Hardship Task Force have been a crucial voice in ensuring students are supported this summer and I thank them for their important work.”
Kenneth Gibson MSP added:
“The support provided to students over the course of the pandemic has been substantial, with over £96 million provided via hardship funding, digital access, mental health support and for student associations.
“As always, the SNP is keen to ensure that anyone who wishes to study can afford to do so. This is why this support has been put in place, but also why – unlike in England – we continue to have free tuition and the Education Maintenance Allowance.”
NUS Scotland President Matt Crilly said:
“We welcome additional discretionary funding for students/ The SNP Government recognises the dire situation facing students this summer. Many students have already lost crucial part-time jobs, most have received their final student support payment, and are not eligible for Universal Credit, which is why today’s announcement of a summer support review is particularly welcome.”
Read more information on the support available for students here.
ENDS
Comments