The Discretionary Learner Support Fund (DLSF) gives financial support to adult students who – without this money – may not be able to start or complete a course at college. The purpose of the fund is to help with travel to College, uniform/equipment, the material fee and childcare.
The money in the Fund is given out on a “first-come, first-served” basis, so you should apply as soon as possible for the best chance of receiving support from the Fund. To apply you must meet the eligibility criteria below and complete the 19+
Learner Support Fund application form.
A different fund is available for students who are aged 16-18.
Eligibility criteria
- 19+ on 31 August of the year your course starts
- Meet the residency criteria
- Studying a qualification up to level 3
- Studying your first full level 3 qualification (under 24 years)
- Meet certain financial conditions
- Enrolled on a publicly funded course at Leicester College
- Gross household income below £33,000, or if you are a single student less than £18,525
Financial support available
Types of support available
- Travel (for those that live 1.7 miles or more from the campus that they study at)
- Childcare
- Essential uniform and equipment
- Material fee (paid at enrolment)
You must be enrolled on a course at Leicester College in order to receive the above funding.
Childcare
Childcare must be provided by an OFSTED registered provider and must be approved by a Welfare Advisor prior to childcare commencing. Leicester College has set a limit of £50 per day and £30 for morning or afternoon sessions as a reasonable cost for registered childcare.
If the child is eligible for 15 or 30 hours per week free early education these must be used to cover the required sessions. Timetabled days will only be considered for childcare support.
All payments are made directly to the childcare provider on receipt of invoice at the end of each month. Students pay the provider any remaining balance themselves.