Too many desperate pleas for educational assistance

The author of a new book on educational grants has urged for more considered approaches to trusts for educational assistance.

Sarah Johnston, author of the new edition of Guide to Educational Grants 2011/12 says, ‘Now is an important time for many undergraduates and pupils’ parents to consider their funding situations for the new academic year. During the research for the guide we noticed an increase in enquiries from individuals weeks before the new term last year. Many of these were desperate pleas for assistance, with little evidence of extenuating circumstances (save for financial need) and no idea of how much funding they needed."

"The end of term may be drawing to a close for many school pupils and university students, but now is the time to lay plans for the new term in September."

Sarah continues, ‘It’s best to assess your needs and make plans to apply as soon as possible to allow trusts enough time to consider your application."

"To avoid coming unstuck come September, approach the trusts at the earliest opportunity with a structured case for support and a full itemised budget worked out. Many trusts have prearranged application deadlines and criteria so you need to check your eligibility and apply early to give them enough time to process your application. "

The Educational Grants Directory may be the resource you need to signpost students and pupils alike to vital sources of funding. It contains over 1,400 trusts with a combined giving total of £60 million from primary age to undergraduate level.

For more information please contact Richard Lee, Directory of Social Change by email or phone (020 7391 4881, 0797 008 7207).

Notes to Editors

• Guide to Educational Grants 2011/12, 11th edition by Sarah Johnston, is published by the Directory of Social Change (DSC) and is available for £75.00 from www.dsc.org.uk/education
• The Guide covers all levels of education up to and including first degree level.
• Grants are available to cover expenses such as school uniforms, study books, school trips, costs related to special educational needs, musical instruments, sports equipment, tuition fees, scholarships, limited living expenses.
• Founded in 1974, the Directory of Social Change (DSC) is a national charity which supports an independent voluntary sector through campaigning, training and publications.  DSC is the largest supplier of information and training to the voluntary sector, and its work helps tens of thousands of organisations every year achieve their aims.  Learn more at www.dsc.org.uk/AboutUs.
• DSC has also published a new edition of The Guide to Grants for Individuals in Need 2011/2012 – see www.dsc.org.uk/individuals