The OU introduces new £500 Carers and Care Experienced Bursaries to support students

In a significant collaboration with the Department for the Economy's Step Up funding initiative, The Open University (OU) proudly introduces two bursaries aimed at easing the financial burden for carers and care-experienced students studying with the university. The Step Up Carers Bursary and the Step Up Care Experience Bursary offer a £500 award to qualifying students.

Step Up Carers Bursary: A Helping Hand for Those Who Care

The Step Up Carers Bursary is designed to provide crucial financial support to individuals who dedicate their time to caring for others. Whether they are tending to a family member, a friend, or someone in need, carers often face the dual challenge of balancing caregiving responsibilities with pursuing higher education. The OU Carers Bursary aims to alleviate financial strain, enabling carers to pursue their academic aspirations with greater ease.

Michael Bower/Maggie Bates, Assistant Director, Student Support at The Open University in Ireland/Senior Manager, Widening Access at The Open University in Ireland, expressed the OU’s gratitude for the Department for the Economy's support, stating, "The Step Up Carers Bursary is a testament to our dedication to be open to people, places, methods and ideas. With the backing of Step Up funding, we can make a tangible impact on the lives of those who dedicate themselves to caring for others."

Step Up Care-Experienced Bursary: Nurturing the Potential of Every Student

Acknowledging the unique journeys of care-experienced individuals, The Open University is offering the Step Up Care-Experienced Bursary. This bursary aims to create a supportive and nurturing educational environment for those who have been in the care system. By providing financial assistance, the OU seeks to break down barriers and empower care-experienced students to achieve their academic goals.

Michael Bower/Maggie Bates, Assistant Director, Student Support at The Open University in Ireland/Senior Manager, Widening Access at The Open University in Ireland emphasised the importance of the Step Up Care-Experienced Bursary, saying, "With the support of Step Up funding, we can ensure that care-experienced individuals have the resources and support needed to excel in their academic pursuits."

How to Apply and Eligibility Criteria

The application process for both the Step Up Carers Bursary and Step Up Care-Experienced Bursary is now open. To be eligible, applicants must be enrolled as students at The Open University and meet the specific criteria outlined for each bursary. The application process is designed to be straightforward, with a focus on ensuring accessibility for all interested candidates.

For detailed information on eligibility criteria and the application process, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the fees and funding section of the Open University’s website: Fees | Funding | Bursaries | The Open University

Investing in a Brighter Future

By providing these bursaries, The Open University, in partnership with the Department for the Economy's Step Up Initiative, is continuing to create a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape. The OU recognises the value that carers and care-experienced individuals bring to society and is committed to investing in their potential. With the generous support of Step Up funding, The Open University is not only breaking down financial barriers but is also sending a powerful message – education is for everyone, regardless of personal circumstances.