Financial support for students
The GOV.UK website has a tool to get information on a range of student financial matters.
If you are aged 16 to 19, studying at a publicly funded school or college in England - not a university or currently taking part in a training course (including unpaid work experience) you could get a bursary of up to £1,200 to aid with education-related costs, depending on your circumstances and benefits.
The bursary fund money can be used by you or your education/training provider to pay for things like clothing, books and other equipment for your course, transport or lunch on days in which you study or train.
Find out more and how to apply.
19+ Discretionary Learner Support
If you are over the age of 19, on a further education course and facing financial hardship, you could get Discretionary Learner Support (DLS). The amount of the support is dependant on the college you are attending and is decided based on their scheme and you circumstances.
The money may be used for things like accommodation and travel, course materials and equipment or childcare.
Find out more about DLS.
Greater Manchester Transport
If are over the age of 16 then it may be worth looking into how to obtain lower fairs when accessing public transport in the Greater Manchester region.
Find out more on the Transport for Greater Manchester website.
If you are aged 16-25 then you can buy a Railcard, the Railcard allows you to ride on rail and tubes for two thirds of the price.
It can be purchased for those over 25 so long as they are in full time education.
Get more information about the railcard.
You may be able to borrow money to help pay for university or college tuition fees and to help with living costs. You might get extra money on top of this, for example if you’re on a low income, are disabled or have children.
Find out more about student finances.
If you are taking part of post-16 approved education then you are eligible for a NUS Apprenticeship Extra Card. The card offers discounts for high-street stores, restaurants, public transport, the cinema and many more.
The card is £11 for a 12 month membership and you’ll receive countless offers and discounts.
To get more information and to sign up visit the Totum site.
Young people and benefits
Young people with disabilities
You can visit our money page under the Local Offer section. This gives information around a wide range of financial advice and support.
Child Benefit stops on 31 August on or after your child’s 16th birthday if they leave education or training. It continues if they stay in approved education or training, but you must tell the Child Benefit Office.
You will be sent a letter in your child’s final year of school to ask about their future plans.
Get more information.