Information about the support for care leavers.
Overview
A care leaver is someone who has been looked after by a local authority during childhood. The term ‘care experienced’ is also sometimes used.
We understand that not all students leaving the care system will identify as a ‘care leaver’ and you may not wish to tell others, or the university, this information. This is absolutely fine and is your choice to make.
We also understand that your experience will be unique. Some of our students tell us they have supportive foster families they can return to in the holidays and receive adequate support from their local authority. Others, however, find themselves without support in the holidays and may struggle without a family to ask for help.
University services
If you need support you can talk to your Student Support Adviser, they are here to help and advise you on managing your academic studies alongside day-to-day life.
Visit the Support at Hallam page for a full list of services. If you are not sure which service you need, contact Hallam Help, they are here to point you in the right direction and ensure your enquiry is sent to the right team.
Rent guarantor scheme
To be able to pay for rent in agreed instalments, most landlords require a suitable third person to act as a rent guarantor.
A rent guarantor is a third party, a family member for example, who agrees to pay your rent if you cannot. We understand that this is not always possible, especially for students who do not have family support.
If you have accepted a room in university allocated halls, can't find a guarantor and can’t afford to pay your rent upfront, a guarantor insurance scheme is available to eligible students who are care experienced.
For more information about the scheme, please email residentialsupport@shu.ac.uk.
If you are looking at private sector accommodation and are having issues finding a guarantor, other options may be available. For advice, please contact Accommodation Services and/or the Students Union Advice Centre.
Please take care not to enter into a legally binding tenancy agreement if you have not secured a suitable guarantor, as without one your rent may be expected in full before you are able to move into the property.
Financial support
Support from the university
The Care Leavers Package includes the maximum of £2,100 from the Student Success Scholarship, plus a bursary of £1,500. For more information and to check your eligibility, visit the Care Leaver Package page.
Visit our scholarships and bursaries page for information on the other financial support you may be able to apply for.
External financial support
The Government website has information on the support that local councils must provide to those leaving foster or local authority care up to the age of 25.
The Sheffield Leaving Care Service supports people up to the age of 25, their guide provides information on what you can expect from Sheffield City Council to support you towards independence. Other local councils will provide similar information and support.
External support
Become is a charity supporting young care leavers. They provide a friendly space to meet other care-experienced young people and can help answer your questions and concerns about your rights as a care-experienced young person.
Need help
If you have any questions about the support available, please contact Hallam Help.
