Childcare Support

Access to Learning Fund (ALF)

There is provision for childcare costs in the ALF.  See the section titled “Hardship support”
detailed.  If you want some help with the form contact the OUSU Vice-President (Women) or
Vice-President (Welfare and Equal Opportunities).

Childcare Fund

Overseas and EU students are eligible to apply for this fund if facing unforseen financial
hardship. Funding come from the University. The Childcare Fund provides funding to help with
the cost of childcare provision in order to help students complete their studies. Apply to the
Student Funding and International Office, the contact details are in the directory at the end of
the section.

Childcare Grant

This is funding provided by the government and students apply through their LA (formerly
LEA). This is for childcare provision costs for full time students with dependent children in
registered or approved childcare. It is based on actual childcare costs and is means tested.
Parents’ Learning Allowance

This is for course-related costs for full time students with dependent. children. It is means
tested and students apply through their LA.

Child Tax Credits

These replace ‘Dependents Grant for children’.  It is means tested on income and circumstances (by the Inland Revenue.). You don’t have to be working to claim it. See www.dfes.gov.uk and www.taxcredits.inlandrevenue.gov.uk/HomeNew.aspx.

Finding out more

If you want to know more about what support is available you can contact the OUSU VP
(Women) or the Student Funding Office and they will be able to answer your questions.