11/05/2004

NHS students in line for help over childcare costs

Students who are being funded by the NHS to train in areas like nursing, midwifery or physiotherapy could be in line for assistance with childcare costs from September, the government has announced today.

The scheme, which is expected to cost the government £17 million a year, will cover up to 85% of childcare costs and help around 6,000 students a year. Students with one child could receive up to £114 per week or £170 per week for two or more children.

Health Secretary John Reid said that financial commitments like childcare costs could make training less attractive - particularly for mature students, single parents and those with partners on a low wage.

"I want parents who are interested in becoming nurses, midwives or physiotherapists to start their training knowing that the NHS will help them with childcare while they learn," he said.

"It is crucial that the NHS recruits and retains talented and skilled individuals. To do this we must widen access to professional training and boost student retention."

The new allowance will be means-tested so that funding can be targeted where it's needed most. The money will cover childcare costs for under-15s, or under-17s if the child has special needs.

Students can check their eligibility for help with childcare costs by calling 0845 009 2559.

(gmcg)

Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

04 August 2008
Students Battle Living Costs
Students at two universities are facing very different financial conditions despite being just 50 miles apart. A league table compiled by a high street bank has revealed that Exeter University students have the highest cost of living for students while those at Plymouth University have the most cost-effective place to study.
18 October 2005
Fee support for part-time students
Part-time students are to receive an increase in financial support under new plans announced by the government. Under the new plans, students studying at least 75% of a full-time course will be eligible to receive up to £1,125 – an increase from the previous maximum of £885.
07 September 2011
Childcare Costs Force Poor Out Of Work
Families on low-incomes across the UK are having to turn down jobs or are considering leaving work because they can't afford to pay for childcare. New research from Save the Children and Daycare Trust also found that parents, regardless of income, say that they can't afford not to work, but struggle to pay for childcare.
23 April 2014
Eight Renewable Energy Projects Approved
Plans for eight major renewable energy projects have been approved by the government as part of energy measures, expected to generate enough clean power for three million homes, support 8,500 new jobs and attract more than £12bn in private investment.
17 February 2014
Employment Growth Rate To Slow Say CIPD
The recent growth in the number of people employed is expected to slow again the coming months, the Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development (CIPD) has said.