Information about the support for carers.
Overview
A student carer is someone who regularly spends time looking after or helping a friend, partner or family member due to illness, disability, frailty or addiction. The care provided may be personal, practical, emotional or supervisory and is unpaid.
We understand that not all students who provide care will identify as being a ‘student carer’ 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 studying, socialising and working whilst providing care for someone can be very challenging.
University services
If your caring responsibilities are affecting your studies or 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.
Carer support plans
Carer support plans are available to provide you with flexibility and to help you manage your teaching, assessments and caring responsibilities. A carer support plan might include things such as:
- requests to extend deadlines, or
- changes to your seminar groups.
For more information and to set up a carer support plan, talk to your Student Support Adviser who will discuss your needs with you.
Financial support
Support from the university
The Student Success Scholarship is designed to help you succeed at Sheffield Hallam. As student carers are a priority group, they are more liking to receive a higher award amount. For more information and to check your eligibility, visit the Student Success Scholarship page.
Visit our scholarships and bursaries page for information on the other financial support you may be able to apply for.
External financial support
As a student with caring responsibilities, you may be able to claim Government funding or benefits, depending on your circumstances.
If you have a child under 17 years old with special educational needs, you may be eligible for the Childcare Grant from Student Finance England.
External support
Sheffield Carers Centre is a charity affiliated to the national Carers Trust. They offer a range of services to help carers focus on their own health and wellbeing. They can also connect carers to others in a similar situation and offer support to help with the challenges of caring.
Need help
If you have any questions about the support available, please contact Hallam Help.
