Have You Heard About The 16-19 Bursary?

Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) has been replaced by the 16-19 Bursary.

A young person with Down’s syndrome will receive a Bursary of £1,200 a year, if they are:

• aged 16 to 19
• in full time education
• receiving Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and Disability Living Allowance (DLA).

If they get ESA and DLA, they count as being in one of the “vulnerable groups” with a guaranteed bursary.   Note that, unlike EMA, there is no household means-test.

There are also discretionary bursaries for students facing financial difficulties.

Schools and colleges are responsible for identifying students who are in the “vulnerable groups”.   They will decide if someone is on a full time course. They are also responsible for administering the bursary.

If your child meets the qualifying conditions and you have not already been notified by their school or college, please get in touch with them.

As it is a new scheme, there may be teething problems. If you are experiencing any difficulties, the DSA benefits advisers, Christina Katic or Helen Wild will be able to help. You can contact them on 0845 230 0372.

If you unsure of what benefits are available to people with Down’s syndrome from 16 onwards you can download the DSA’s guide from their website www.downs-syndrome.org.uk