Access student financial help!

Stacey_sparkles

Hi all. I have just started an access to HE course at college, and have no idea where else to turn. Nobody seems to have any answers. I have left my job to start this course, as the shifts I was working meant it was impossible to do both. I have 2 children, primary school age, and I've been told I will get £100 per week in tax credits, housing benefit minus the bedroom tax, and my child benefit every 4 weeks of £136. I am trying to find out if there are any other benefits, grants I can claim? I know there is the parent learner allowance type payment, but that's for HE students. I am classed as a FE student. I've contacted DWP, they say I'm not entitled to anything, as youngest child is already 5. I am really struggling to make ends meets with just £100 per week. From that I have to pay bedroom tax, gas, electric, food, petrol. My chb doesn't even cover my car insurance for the month! Any help will be hugely appreciated. I've tried the online calculators but they're "not designed for students". Thanks in advance everyone.

tomtontom

Most people would work alongside their studies. Perhaps you could do the course part time and work full time?

lovemywestie

Why didn't you check what your income was going to be BEFORE you gave up your job and started the course? Seems irresponsible to me, esp if there's children involved...The Open University might have been a better option, work and study at the same time, no need for Access course, less debt long term too

Voyager2002

Depending on your rent, it should be perfectly possible to live on that income. Get rid of your car: students don't need cars! Go to the 'old style' board for advice on living on a limited income, and use your time to study and to be frugal.

Voyager2002

Ask if your college has any kind of hardship fund: that might help.