Learner financial support
Information about financial support that may be available to help with the costs of learning, including travel and other course-related expenses.
The Adult Learning Service may be able to offer financial support if financial hardship would otherwise prevent you from taking part in learning.
Subject to available funding, support may be available towards:
- travel costs (normally up to 50%)
- essential course equipment
- educational visits related to your course
Travel support is usually only considered where the learning venue is not within a reasonable walking distance or where there are other factors to consider, such as mobility issues.
Who can apply
To be considered for support, you must:
- have a household income below £30,000
- be unemployed and receiving a means-tested benefit, such as:
- Universal Credit
- Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Jobseeker's Allowance
If you are an asylum seeker, you may also be eligible if you:
- live in West Sussex
- are seeking leave to remain
- have valid photo identification
- have a UK bank account
Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee funding. Support is awarded on a case-by-case basis, subject to available funds and may be reduced where demand is high.
Conditions of support
Financial support is subject to learners:
- remaining enrolled on their course
- maintaining attendance in line with the service's minimum attendance requirement (currently 87%)
- following the Learner Code of Conduct
Learners who do not meet these requirements may be asked to return equipment or repay support received.
How to apply
Applications must be made using the Adult Learning Service travel support application form.
Speak to your tutor to obtain a copy of the form or apply online below:
Apply for travel support (external link)You will need to provide evidence of your income or benefits with your application. There is no application deadline, but funding is limited and applications are assessed on a first-come, first-served basis.
We recommend you apply as early as possible after your course starts.
For further information, speak to your tutor or email: adultlearning.management@westsussex.gov.uk.
Support for learners aged 16-19
Learners aged 16-19 may be able to access additional financial support, including:
If you are enrolled on a 16 to 19 study programme and would like to find out more about the support available, speak to the 16-19 Curriculum Lead or the Curriculum and Learner Support Co-ordinator.
They can provide advice and guidance on eligibility, applications and the support options available to you.
Additional information
Where support cannot be provided directly by West Sussex Adult Learning Service, we aim to provide information, advice and signposting to relevant services, including:
- support available through the county council community hub, including information about the crisis and resilience fund
- access to low-cost devices, internet connectivity and digital inclusion initiatives through our Digital Inclusion, Access and Safety
- childcare options and available funding
- discounts on bus travel
If you are unsure what support may be available, speak to your tutor who can help you identify and access relevant services.