Money Problems

[Clucky111]

Does anyone know anywhere i could apply for extra funding? I'm a student from a low income family and I cant find a job...I'm well into my overdraft and panicking cos my rent didnt get paid this month. It's not helping my depression at all plus we've had some severe illness in the family lately which has involved travel costs I've tried the university but I can't get anything til term starts, and I have no money til then

 

[DiagnosisBipolar2]

Are you a part-time student or a full-time student clucky?

Even if you are a full-time student you may be entitled to DLA which is non-income assessed.

 

[Clucky111]

I'm a full time student. What is DLA?

 

[DiagnosisBipolar2]

Disability Living Allowance.

I cant remember off hand what it is you suffer from Clucky but it is a benefit which depending on your condition, and how it effects your day to day living that you may be entitled too.

Do you get a Disabled Students Allowance? as that is something else which may help you throughout your uni course.

 

[Clucky111]

I've checked with Student Finance and they only give an allowance for people with the following issues, and I'm not sure any applies to me? 1 is 'non-medical helper' (which is a no) 2 is specialist equipment....which is also a no. I have (increasingly) bad depression...so I can't work, especially without it taking its toll on my course;

Other disability related expenditure £1,729 (per annum) £1,293 (per annum)
I don't think this would cover my problem? As it isn't expenditure because of my illness, it's a lack of money because I can't work and study without having a melt down.

Also, I'm not convinced the University's bursaries for disabilities would consider mental health to require any sort of help from them They'd probably just refer me to the welfare department (which to be fair, is very good...when you can get an appointment)

 

[DiagnosisBipolar2]

You should apply for a disabled students allowance you will be suprised what you are entitled to; let the assessor be the judge of the help you need as depression can be very debilitating!

Apply for Disability Living Allowance the worst that can happen is that they will say no. Go to a CAB or your local mind and get them to help you with the form.

Mental health problems are covered by The Disability Discrimination Act if they are ongoing and long term so universities do indeed have to take them seriously.

Make an application today to your university's hardship fund; dont wait for term to start! Go on to your university's website and download a hardship application form.

Good Luck xx