Student Carers

A carer is defined as “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. A carer is not a parent, unless they are caring for a disabled child, nor does it include caring responsibilities as part of a voluntary placement or paid work (e.g. child/pet minding) whether inside or outside the student’s course.”

Students who declare their caring responsibilities to Student Services will be supported in a number of ways, for example:

  • Providing access to specialist staff who can support them throughout their time at university.
  • Providing clear information to students and potential students about the content and nature of the course, the assessment methods, learning outcomes and professional body requirements, in order that the individual can assess how they can successfully study and care at the same time.
  • Working with your academic team to identify the most suitable study option for you in line with your course requirements.
  • Where possible, ensure courses include procedures for supporting students e.g. offering longer part-time placements which could fit around caring responsibilities, considering extensions or extenuating circumstances where unexpected circumstances arise related to their caring responsibilities.
  • Where appropriate, implement flexible arrangements in teaching and learning for those students who may need this due to their caring responsibilities.
  • Receiving additional financial support from a Carers Bursary and Hardship Fund

Further details are available on our fact sheet:
Carer Support

If you would like to apply for the carer support and bursary, please click on the following link, you will need to use your UCLan Log-in details:
Application for Carer Support and Bursary

 

Useful links

For more information about the support available to Carers in Lancashire please have a look at the following useful links:

Blackburn with Darwen Carers Service
www.bwdcarers.org.uk

Blackpool Carers Centre
www.blackpoolcarers.org

Carers Hub Lancashire
http://ncompassnorthwest.co.uk/services/carers-support

Carers Link Lancashire
www.carerslinklancashire.co.uk

Lancashire County Council Carers Support
www.lancashire.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/adult-social-care/caring-for-someone