Advice Needed Asap

duffman13

Last year i was awarded the full maintenance grant but not the special rate. At the end of last year my only legal guardian passed away and her only income was a disability benefit. I have no current income besides my grant. When i approached my college about the student assistance fund i was told to appeal my grant to try and get the special rate.

The year which the grant is based is 07 and during that year i had no income except jobseekers allowance, i now have no income except my grant which is the full maintenance grant, i was not entitled to back to education because i hadnt been on the live register long enough. My appeal was rejected and i dont know where to go from here is there anywhere to appeal too and if so would it be worth my while.

At this rate it doesnt look like my education will be continueing and i may have to go back on the dole. Its a disgrace im being punished for not being on the dole long enough to get the special grant or the back to education, i appear to be in limbo. Any advice please someone help me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

RedXIV

Depending on the college, some of them do have "special case" funds associated with the student assistance fund. I'm really sorry for your loss but the college may require proof of the death of your guardian to administer this aid. Until then, keep the college informed as much as possible, there are mechanisms in place.

Best of luck mate!

duffman13

Cheers for the quick reply i dont mind providing any certs to prove my case i do know a few people who avail off the student assistance fund and at the moment the college seems very stretched. Looks like ill have to apply i just can understand how im not eligible for the top up. Anyway the advice is much appreciated

RedXIV

It may help if you get in touch with your school councilor? They can add extra weight to your case and i have personal experience of this so it's not a dead end.