Open University students in Scotland who have caring responsibilities can apply for financial support available specifically to help them with study related costs.
We know that many carers have faced challenges in accessing higher education and in managing their studies alongside everything else going on in their lives. This financial support intends to recognise student carers’ achievements and provide some extra support where needed.
The definition of a carer the OU uses is 'anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction cannot cope without their support'.
There is a Carers’ Bursary available for general study related costs:
Digital Inclusion Fund for Carers:
You may not be eligible for the Digital Inclusion Fund if you have already received funds to purchase the same or similar digital equipment through other means of financial support available to OU students. For example, through Disabled Students' Allowance, Discretionary Fund or the Connecting Scotland initiative. If this is the case, please tell us more in your application.
Have any questions about the support listed for student carers?
Email the OU Scotland Cares team and we will be happy to help.