SUPPORT WELCOMED FOR HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENTS IN WEST LOTHIAN

SUPPORT WELCOMED FOR HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENTS IN WEST LOTHIAN

Angela Constance MSP has welcomed the Scottish Government's announcement of extra financial help for higher  education students facing financial hardship over the summer months. 

 

The Scottish Government has brought forward early access to £11.4 million of discretionary funds - which will be administered by colleges and universities - to support higher education students. 

 

Higher Education Students are, due to UK government rules, unable to claim Universal Credit or other benefits.

 

Scottish higher  education students studying in Europe as part of EU Portability or historically arranged schemes will also be able to access a £100,000 emergency fund administered b the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS). 

 

Ms Constance said:

 

“Many students in West Lothian will have expected to find paid work over the summer to cover their rent or save for the following term – but are now, through no fault of their own, unable to do so. 

 

"This Scottish Government support will be welcome news for those higher education students who rely on part-time jobs over the summer months, who could find it difficult to cover their living costs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

"No student should face financial hardship as a result of this crisis - and these new measures will support students until the start of the next academic year when bursary, grant and loan payments will begin again."

 

ENDS

  

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