Going Higher: a Carer's Guide to Universities in Wales

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GOING HIGHER: A CARER’S GUIDE TO UNIVERSITIES IN WALES GOING HIGHER: A CARER’S GUIDE TO UNIVERSITIES IN WALES

ABOUT CARERS TRUST

Carers Trust Wales is part of Carers Trust, an ambitious national charity committed to improving support and services for unpaid carers by:

• Recognising and celebrating the During 2018-19 the Carers Trust essential contributions carers make Wales Network reached over 36,000 carers, employed 520 staff and was • Raising awareness of the barriers supported by 427 volunteers. faced by carers of all ages Alongside our Network Partners, • Working with decision-makers to Carers Trust Wales delivers ensure that appropriate support practical support and information is available to empower carers to to carers and to those who work live happy and fulfilling lives with them including schools, social We work with Network Partners - workers, nurses, pharmacists and local services that deliver direct physiotherapists. We also seek to support to carers - making the most influence decision-makers, the of our collective experience, media and the public to promote, expertise and innovations. protect and recognise the contribution carers make, and the support they deserve.

[email protected] 0300 772 9702 Carers.org/wales @CarersTrustWal

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thewaterloofoundation*

ABOUT WATERLOO FOUNDATION

The Waterloo Foundation (TWF) wealth and the unsustainable use is an independent grant-making of the world’s natural resources. foundation created in 2007, The Waterloo Foundation helps both and based in Cardiff, Wales. The the global community and the local Waterloo Foundation gives grants community here in Wales. to organisations in both the UK and worldwide and is most This guide is funded under The interested in projects that help Waterloo Foundation Caring Wales globally particularly in the areas of grant, which is designed to support the disparity of opportunities and programmes that help unpaid carers.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We would like to thank The Waterloo number of carers are encouraged to Foundation for their kind and apply to university and are supported generous grant which allowed us to to achieve in their academic life. deliver the Going Higher programme and to publish this guide. Most of all, we would like to thank all carers, from our Carers Trust Youth We would also like to thank staff from Council and from universities across all universities and Reaching Wider the nation, who have shared their Partnerships in Wales and commend views, experiences and advice to them for the systems they have put help shape this important resource. in place to ensure that an increasing

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CONTENTS

About Carers Trust 2 About Waterloo Foundation 3 Acknowledgements 3 Introduction 5 Your rights in Wales 6 Going Higher with Reaching Wider 7 How you can apply to university through UCAS 9 Aberystwyth University 11 Bangor University 14 Cardiff Metropolitan University 18 Cardiff University 22 The Open University 26 Swansea University 30 University of South Wales 33 University of Wales: Trinity St. David 37 Wrexham Glyndŵr University 40

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INTRODUCTION

We strongly believe that all carers deserve to have the support they need to accomplish the things that matter most to them.

For some, this will include practical All universities welcome applications advice and financial help to enable from carers recognising the valuable them to apply to and achieve skills and experiences gained in higher education. A study through their caring role. undertaken by Carers Trust and the University of Nottingham in 2013 We understand that fulfilling your found that carers were 4 times more educational or academic goals likely to drop out than students alongside the responsibility of caring without caring responsibilities. for someone can be challenging. Throughout this guide you will find As part of our Going Higher project, details about the support available funded by The Waterloo Foundation, in each university in Wales, both Carers Trust Wales worked with all during your studies and during the universities in Wales to put in place application process. We’ve included simple systems and policies which up to date contact details within have had a positive, sustainable each university, should you have any impact on the outcomes and further questions about your options. experiences of carers in higher education in Wales. We engaged This handbook also contains useful 180 young carers during our tips and experiences from other project, many of whom went on carers who have had a successful to have successful and enjoyable and fulfilling time in higher experiences at university. education. Through this guide we aim to inform We hope you find this resource and encourage countless more helpful and relevant. The information carers to broaden their horizons and shared in this guide and the to feel confident that with support experiences of other carers who they can succeed at university. This have achieved in higher education guide has been developed by Carers aim to be an encouraging starting Trust Wales, in partnership with all point for you to consider university universities and Reaching Wider alongside your caring role. partnerships in Wales to help carers find out more about the support that is now available to them.

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YOUR RIGHTS IN WALES

This guide should be understood in the context of certain legal rights and entitlements that are in place to support carers of all ages to do the things that matter to them alongside their caring role.

Under the Social Services and to be considered a carer. If you are Wellbeing (Wales) Act 2014, all unsure about how you can access carers in Wales have the right to information, advice and support have their needs assessed by their through your local council you can local council. Where the assessment email us at [email protected] or call identifies eligible needs, relevant us on 0300 772 9702. support must be provided. This could include support that would make it easier to attend university. Am I a carer? If you live in Wales and would like to explore the opportunity to study A carer is anyone who cares, at university, you can contact your unpaid, for a friend or family local council for information and member who due to illness, advice about the type of support disability, a mental health that might be available to help you problem or an addiction cannot to do so. You do not need to live with cope without their support. the person you care for or care for a certain number of hours per week

What does • Emotional support • Personal care, such as a carer do? helping someone dress or go to the toilet Carers support the person they care for in many ways, such • Managing the family budget as, but not restricted to, the and collecting prescriptions examples below: • Helping to give someone their • Practical tasks, such as cooking, medication housework and shopping • Helping someone communicate • Physical care, such as helping someone out of bed

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GOING HIGHER WITH REACHING WIDER

The Reaching Wider programme, funded by the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales, aims to help more people enter college or university. Through a series of educational and informative activities with school pupils, families and adults, this project empowers people who would not otherwise consider higher education to learn more about what going to university or college could mean for them.

There are three Reaching Wider All Reaching Wider partnerships are Partnerships which together cover dedicated to supporting carers and all of Wales. Each partnership offers you can contact your local Reaching different activities for carers such as Wider Partnership to find out what subject taster workshops, university activities and support they offer to visits and summer schools. carers in your area.

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Anglesey, Conwy, Denbighshire. North and Mid You can participate at Reaching Wales Reaching Wider activities at Aberystwyth University, Bangor University Wider and Wrexham Glyndwr University. aims to reduce barriers to higher education with a range 01248 383883 Social icon Circle

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Pembrokeshire. This project South West Wales runs activities in schools as well Reaching Wider as within Swansea University and the University of Wales offers taster days, after Trinity St David. school clubs and residential 01792 602128

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and Blaenau Gwent. First Campus First Campus higher education activities and

residentials take place at Cardiff is the Reaching Wider programme University, Cardiff Metropolitan in South East Wales, offering University and the University of inclusive projects and learning South Wales. experiences in Bridgend, Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly, Rhondda Cynon 01443 482550

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HOW YOU CAN APPLY TO UNIVERSITY THROUGH UCAS

What is UCAS? UCAS Hub

UCAS is the centralised Universities Interactive, tailored information and Colleges Admissions Service that is available through the newly potential students need to use in launched UCAS Hub, a sign-in order to apply to all higher education space where you can manage institutions in the UK, except The your applications, create lists of Open University which has a separate favourite courses, record important application process. UCAS offers deadlines, find out about open support and advice to people of all days and chat with other students. ages and backgrounds considering This is a helpful tool to explore your higher education, whether it is options and get the information you undergraduate and postgraduate need to make your decision about programmes or apprenticeships and higher education. teacher training. The UCAS website includes Did you know? detailed information about the application process, as well as general information about You can find out what funding university courses, financial is available each year on the support and student life. Student Finance Wales website.

Before attending Uni

My teacher and young carers support worker encouraged me to apply. I never considered it an option for me. Putting my experience of being a young carer in my personal statement helped me stand out. The open days helped me decide what was best for me and my teacher came along with me as my mum couldn’t. She asked all the questions about what support was available to me as carer. It helped reassure my fears and it’s how I knew Cardiff was the uni for me. Sarah, student at Cardiff University

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What support is Your personal available for carers? statement

UCAS have created an information The personal statement is an and advice page specifically important part of the application for students who have caring process and it offers you a chance responsibilities. If you provide unpaid to say why you have chosen a care to a family member, partner or particular course and what your friend, you may be able to receive relevant experience and skills are. extra support during your studies, UCAS advises that as a carer you such as flexible deadlines, wellbeing most likely have many skills and advice or financial support. experiences that would strengthen your personal statement. UCAS, in collaboration with Carers Trust, have developed a Top tip personal statement guide to help carers write their personal Ask for help! When thinking statement, which includes of applying to university, tell valuable tips for carers considering the university about your attending university. circumstances, so that you can get support and information tailored to your needs. Your Contact details school, employer or local carer service may also be able to help Customer Experience Centre you with your personal statement 0371 468 0468

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ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY Located on the west coast of Wales, between Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains, Aberystwyth University has been a well-regarded institution since its establishment in 1872 and is the top university for student satisfaction in Wales and England, with an overall satisfaction rate of 90%. The institution’s ethos is that finding your perfect university is all about finding the best balance between a quality education and a rewarding student life. © Tanya Dedyukhina

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What support is available for carers?

Since 2017, Aberystwyth University has offered dedicated support for young carers, care leavers and those “standing alone” (estranged from parents). The dedicated support offered to young and young adult carers includes:

• Support to visit the university Aberystwyth University recognises prior and on application that the needs of students with caring responsibilities will vary from • An informal meet and greet person to person. Their dedicated session during Welcome Week Student Support Services are • A Bursary of up to £1500 available to talk to any prospective (dependent on circumstances). or current students to discuss their See the University’s Scholarship particular needs. Brochure for more information Aberystwyth University prides itself • A trained peer mentor during your on delivering a high level of support first year, if wanted for students, in a safe and caring environment. They aim to be flexible • A range of student support services and to encourage people of all available from enrolment until ages, outlooks and backgrounds to graduation succeed in higher education.

Feeling supported

The additional support, financial and otherwise, made looking after my mum and supporting her when I needed to so much easier. I felt that someone understood what I needed and had the time to give me support in my ‘young carer’ role, including liaising with the department when I needed time out.

Student at Aberystwyth University

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Health and wellbeing

During your studies, it’s important to take care of your health and wellbeing. Aberystwyth University offers aStudent Wellbeing Service which uses solution-focused techniques to build resilience and develop a toolkit of skills to help effectively manage wellbeing issues relating to university life and beyond.

Welsh University of the Year 97% The Times’ Good of Aberystwyth University University Guide 2020 graduates are in employment or further education six months after graduation The highest Higher Education UK climber Statistics Agency 2018 The Guardian’s University guide 2019

Contact Details

Aberystwyth University Student Recruitment Team Student Support Penglais Campus Penglais Campus Cwrt Mawr Hub Welcome Centre Aberystwyth Aberystwyth SY23 3AN SY23 3FB 01970 623111 01970 621761

01970 622087 For more information and Social icon Circle

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BANGOR UNIVERSITY

Founded in 1884, Bangor University has a long tradition of academic excellence and a strong focus on the student experience. Around 10,000 students currently study at the University. The 2018 National Student Survey results place Bangor amongst the UK’s top 10 universities for student satisfaction.

Bangor University is located on the north coast of Wales, between Snowdonia and the sea – a fantastic location for students interested in sport, particularly outdoor activities. In 2016, North Wales was named as the 4th best region in the world to visit by the travel guide Lonely Planet, due to its stunning location.

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What support is available for carers?

• Connecting carers in the Before you start community: Carers Week your course participation including hosting conferences and events such as Bangor University is committed to ‘Empowering Carers in Education supporting carers and providing and Work’ information and guidance as well as • Hosting conferences and financial and pastoral support for workshops to further develop prospective and current students. support for unpaid carers of all The University’s Widening Access ages and backgrounds Centre works in partnership with various organisations to tackle the • Supporting ‘Carers in Schools’ barriers that prospective students events with caring responsibilities face, barriers which may prevent carers from fulfilling their full potential. Empowering • Residential events for carers. If carers in you are a carer aged 16 to 25, you can attend this 3-day event designed to education and work give you a taste of university life and inform you about the tailored support In 2019, Bangor University you can access at Bangor University. in partnership with Carers A video of the 2019 residential is Trust hosted a successful available on the Widening Access national conference focused Centre Bangor Facebook page on advocating and creating • A Carers Handbook for current opportunities for carers in and prospective students of all education and work. ages detailing information on housing, counselling, financial support and useful contact details

For me, the residential event and a taste of Bangor University life was a place where memories were made. I want to come back.

Young carer

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During your studies Financial support

In collaboration with the Students The Money Support Unit is part of Union, Student Support services the Student Support Team and and local authorities, the Widening can provide advice, information and Access Centre has developed a range guidance on all aspects of student of initiatives for carers which include: funding including: • A dedicated policy on supporting • Budgeting student carers • Undergraduate funding for full • Building support network groups and part time courses to encourage mutual support • Postgraduate funding amongst carers studying at Bangor University • University Bursaries and Scholarships, which include a • A wristband for any student carers Widening Access Scholarship. who wish to wear one, in order to In addition to the £1000 Carer avoid repeatedly having to explain Bursary offered by the University reasons for leaving class at short centrally, an additional scholarship notice or taking a phone call of £1500 is offered by the Widening Access Centre to carers coming to study at Bangor University • Hardship Fund and Crisis Grant

I found financial help, social groups A carer’s top tip and understanding here in Bangor. Seek financial support! “I got advice from another carer that Student at I could do a degree and I would Bangor University get financial support. I would not have done the degree except for speaking to them […] Bursaries were helpful and knowing I would not be worse off financially when losing the carers grant.”

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Health and wellbeing

The Student Counselling Service • Mindfulness taster sessions offers a variety of resources to support students during their time at • An opportunity to talk through university which includes: personal and troubling issues in a safe, confidential environment with • Workshops for students throughout a professional counsellor the academic year including iCan Building Resilience workshops

Being a full-time carer and a full-time student is tough and it takes a special kind of person, but the University staff are extremely supportive and will do all they can to make it a little bit easier.

Student at Bangor University

Contact Details

Bangor University Widening Access College Road Bangor Gwynedd LL57 2DG 01248 383761

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CARDIFF METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY

Cardiff Met are committed to providing learners with an outstanding student experience. The university’s purpose is to deliver high quality and high impact practice-focused and professionally recognised education, research and innovation in partnership with students.

By working together and social cohesion for Cardiff, Wales and championing creativity and the wider world. Cardiff Metropolitan diversity, they enable every University welcomes applications student to fulfil their full potential from all ages and considers skills to make outstanding graduate and attributes gained from work level contributions and generate and other life experiences as well as sustainable economic growth and qualifications.

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What support is available for carers?

and future career aspirations Before you start ‘ Next Step’ programmes your course which ensure that you are supported throughout your The university is committed to learning journey ensuring that everyone with the • School and community-based determination, skills and desire to projects that are delivered in access higher education should be collaboration with First Campus, able to do so. Cardiff Metropolitan designed to support young carers University offers a wide range of to make informed choices about support services and courses for their future in education and carers of all ages, such as: beyond • “ Community to Campus” a • Access to i-zone, a dedicated Widening Access programme support service for all non- of courses for adult learners academic queries, such as without level 4 qualifications, internships, mental health and providing progression routes to money advice support learners at all stages of their learning journey. Programmes are developed in partnership with academic staff, which A carer’s top tip ensures content is at the right level for the learner, gives insight “It is okay to feel frustration into further learning options because of the impact caring has on your life. Personally, professionally and emotionally. You can be a You are not alone!” student at any point in your life I am a carer!

Barriers to achieving higher You can identify yourself as a education will vary and depend carer at the point of enrolment. on individual circumstances. The staff mentor will contact you Cardiff Met offers support to during the first term to introduce carers of all ages, regardless of themselves, advise on services when they decide to engage or available and support the re-engage with their education. transition into university life.

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I was 31 years old, mother to five children, with low expectations of myself. I only ever believed that I could ever be a mother and a housewife […] to raise five children, two who are disabled, which I found very demanding […] Being introduced to Adult Community Learning [has] totally transformed my life and enabled me to see that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. It has equipped me with life skills, built my confidence and integrated me into a community.

Carer, Cardiff Met Journeys

During your studies Financial support

Students with caring responsibilities Cardiff Metropolitan University offers have access to a dedicated staff financial advice and support to all mentor, Emma Cook, who can its students, including: support and advise on all aspects of university life. Emma will be the first • An interactive guide to bursaries point of contact and a link between and scholarships the academic schools, course tutors • A carers bursary of up £1,000 per and the University departments to year if you are a full time student ensure students are accessing all and up to £500 if you are a part the support available to them. time student. In order to access a Prior to enrolling on a course at bursary, you would need to provide Cardiff Met, carers can meet with confirmation from a person who Emma to discuss any support they is involved with the family on a think they might need while they are professional basis (e.g. social a student, including financial advice. worker, GP etc.) confirming that you are a carer. • Student Support Fund in case of unexpected financial difficulties

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Health and wellbeing

If you need additional health and wellbeing support, the Cardiff Met Wellbeing Services include: • 24/7 mental health support and online resources through the Big White Wall page • Free counselling • Disability support

Contact Details

Cardiff Metropolitan University Finance Advice Widening Access Western Avenue Llandaff Campus Cardiff For more information and support CF5 2YB contact Emma Cook, Student Finance Welfare Advisor 029 2020 1563

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Student Services

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CARDIFF UNIVERSITY

Academic life at Cardiff University is challenging, innovative and rewarding. Students learn from leading researchers and teachers who are driven by creativity and curiosity. About 28,000 students from many parts of the world study at Cardiff University, and their diverse backgrounds and experiences make for a dynamic community. This and being close to the facilities and opportunities of a capital city make it a great place to study.

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What support is available for carers?

Residential events for young Before you start carers during the Easter break your course for those who are interested in learning more about becoming a Through working in partnership student with First Campus Reaching • Access to the Step-up Wider, the university continues to Programme, a project aiming to develop a variety of opportunities provide support for pupils Year 11 for young carers and to offer tailored to Year 13 in South East Wales who information, advice and guidance wish to continue their studies to help you plan and prepare for university. Some opportunities • Advice and support available from for carers considering Cardiff Gareth Davies, lead contact for University are: student carers at Cardiff University • Visits to the university so that During online enrolment, you you can see where you could be will be asked if you have caring studying, find out more information responsibilities. If you state yes to about your course and what it this question, Cardiff University will could be like to be a student here contact you in the autumn term to let you know about how carers are • Welcome breakfast session for supported at the university and carers during Open Days, where invite you to meet up with Gareth to you can receive further support see how things are going. and tailored advice

In 2019/20, 195 students enrolled at Cardiff University stated that Top tip they had caring responsibilities. 137 of these are young carers. There are no wrong questions! You can ask about any aspect of studying, including how to get a course timetable, how to plan your studies, what student funding you are entitled to, how to apply for it and what other support is available for carers.

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During your studies Financial support

Different teams at Cardiff University The Advice and Money team offer dedicated support to all offer information and guidance students, in all aspects of their on any aspect of funding and student life: financial support and can help with queries relating to changes in your • The Student Support & circumstances, such as wishing to Wellbeing team run a wide change courses or take a break in range of services for all students your studies. Some of the financial at Cardiff University and they support you can access is: understand the needs of student carers and the challenges that • Access to a hardship fund, they often face called the Financial Assistance Programme, which can support you • A dedicated member of the if you face financial difficulties, or Outreach Team offering support if you incur significant extra costs to young and young adult carers related to studying and caring. • The Residence Life Team provide Applications are income assessed information about living in student and your caring responsibilities and halls and help with the transition financial situation as a carer will be to university life taken into consideration • As well as a host of general • Young Adult Carers Bursary careers advice and employability of £1000 per academic year for events, the GO Wales Team students aged under 25. This may provide an opportunity to gain be available in addition to the work experience during your Cardiff University Bursary. Contact course that can fit in with caring the Bursaries and Scholarships responsibilities team to find out more

Carer’s Passport Top tip

Cardiff University are working Don’t struggle alone! You can on a Carer’s Passport, which get advice and support about will make it easier for all student managing coursework deadlines, carers to identify themselves and exams or if you may need to miss to access the support they need. some lectures. This includes providing a letter of support to confirm that you are managing your studies alongside caring if you should need this.

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Health and wellbeing

Caring for someone while attending university can be challenging. Cardiff A carer’s top tip University counselling and wellbeing staff are on hand to help you manage your emotional, mental and physical “Other carers have managed health, with services such as: [applying to university] and come out the other end. Support will be • Peer support from a fellow student in place should carers chose to leave home to study.” • A variety of workshops, courses and groups on health and wellbeing throughout the academic year • Free counselling and wellbeing appointments

Contact Details

Cardiff University First Campus Student Support 50 Park Place Cardiff CF10 3AT For more information and support contact Gareth Davies, 029 2087 4844 Student Support Adviser

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THE OPEN UNIVERSITY

The Open University (OU) in Wales offers a programme of flexible, supported distance learning to students in the UK and worldwide, allowing them to study when and where it suits them.

The OU’s flexible distance learning attendance at regular lectures is approach is well-placed to fit around not required. Some courses offer the fluctuating commitments faced occasional day schools, where you by carers. The usefulness of this type can meet other students. All modules of study comes down to the fact that include regular online tutorials, the time and place you study can be which you can attend from home, tailored to you. Unlike a conventional either in real time or as recordings. campus-based university, © The Open University

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What support is available for carers?

• If you don’t feel quite ready to sign Before you start up to a formal qualification with your course the Open University, you can try out some of the free online taster The OU recognise that studying and courses available at OpenLearn. caring for someone at the same These courses give you complete time can be challenging so the staff freedom to take as long as you like provide tailored resources and over your studies, or to dip in and out support for your specific needs. If of several courses as you experiment you let the OU know that you are with what works best for you. a carer even before you choose a course, you can access: • A carer’s information pack Did you know containing guidance and support, helpful contact details and other The Open University are an students’ stories. The pack is open entry institution and available in Welsh, English and many of their undergraduate in accessible electronic format qualifications have no formal suitable for screen-reader software. entry requirements. • Personalised advice on the study options available and the time commitment involved, so that you can be confident that you are choosing to study something you will enjoy, which also fits into your life When I finally did tell one of my tutors that I

was a carer, I was It really helped amazed at how me to have audio much support was versions of my given. He explained books… enabling that I could always me to listen to my contact him if I work while I did needed extensions other chores. and extra support.

OU student Carer at OU Wales

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During your studies

For each formal course that you • A work placement programme study with the OU you will be called GO Wales which offers allocated a tutor who will support access work-experience that you throughout your studies, suits you and can potentially giving advice and support relating support you with any caring and to both your work and your study transport costs they may incur management. There is also a whilst on placement. The project dedicated Student Support Team actively supports carers under 25 on hand to guide and advise you through your student journey. You • A Caring and Dependency can chat with them if anything Facebook group moderated by changes or if anything is worrying the Open University Students’ you. The OU offers: Association • Module materials in a range of different formats available online, in print, or even audio – which you can listen to whilst doing I’m hugely other things – so you can choose something that suits you impressed by • Flexible examination the way many arrangements for student carers, students at the which could include arranging for you to take an exam in your own Open University home, with breaks built into the balance their exam time to attend to the person studies alongside you care for caring. This isn’t • Understanding and flexibility around caring responsibilities, easy, and as a tutor such as assignment extensions I really appreciate when you need them, deferring a module or taking a year out if you when students need to take a break. You can also take the trouble arrange some extra telephone to get in touch support from your tutors for “catch up” purposes if you need to miss to help me get a some study because something better picture of unexpected happens their situation. • A dedicated Careers Team who can offer advice on finding flexible OU tutor work experience, and help you talk through any concerns you may have about developing your career, including a webinar ‘Developing your Career Alongside Caring’

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Financial support

In 2020, the Open University I studied through launched a new Carers’ Scholarship Fund, providing fee waivers to the night as I had to 50 student carers starting their stay awake with my undergraduate studies in the 2020/21 academic year. OU students daughter, and then can also access other financial slept during the day support such as: whilst she was at • General student loans school. • Maintenance grants OU student • Disability support

Health and wellbeing What about me Studying while caring can be Open University Wales and Carers hard and sometimes you need Trust Wales have developed a free to look after your own mental personal development course for health. The OU has a range of carers in Wales. Check it out! resources you can access to help you with this: • The Studying and Staying Contact Details Mentally Healthy resource • Big White Wall online community The Open University in Wales focused on looking after mental Student Support Team health and wellbeing 18 Custom House Street Cardiff CF10 1AP 029 2047 1170

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SWANSEA UNIVERSITY

Swansea University is a research-led university that has been making a difference since 1920. The university community thrives on exploration and discovery and offers the right balance of excellent teaching and research, matched by an enviable quality of life.

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What support is available for carers?

Swansea University is committed to • Financial assistance to attend Open supporting student carers and offers Days and interviews a bespoke student support package to those who are eligible. The • A meet and greet service for Open Student Carers Support Package Days, interviews, applicant visit has been designed with student days and arrivals weekend carers and local carers associations • Summer residentials for carers to offer financial, practical and aged 15 to 18 years old organised pastoral support to enable carers to by the South West Wales Reaching get the most out of their university Wider Partnership experience at Swansea. • Reaching Wider’s Step Up to Swansea University Programme Before you start for pupils in Year 12 your course During your studies You can have access to a wide range of support and information, While at Swansea University, you including: can continue to receive tailored information and support, such as: • A named contact within the Welfare@CampusLife team • Regular meetings with a dedicated contact from the Welfare team • Regular communications about Swansea University life • Access to local carers support networks • Exclusive visits to the university organised through your Welfare@ • Access to workplace placements CampusLife contact through the GO Wales programme • Help with planning and arranging accommodation A carer’s top tip Support for Be honest! “I would suggest mature students being open and honest with your lecturers and personal tutor from Swansea University has a the start, as you gain a lot more wide range of support and understanding from the offset.” information for mature students, who may have different needs than potential students who have just finished high school.

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Financial support Health and wellbeing

The Money@CampusLife team Swansea University offers a range provide information and advice on of health and wellbeing support a variety of money-related issues, services: including: • Extra help and support for • Assistance with Student Finance students who may have a disability Applications or a specific learning difficulty • Access to Hardship Funds if you • Free online cognitive behavioural are struggling financially. Carers therapy programme may get priority access to the Swansea University Opportunity • Access to a 6-week stress control Fund, the main hardship fund at course Swansea University • Counselling • Student Carers bursaries of up to £500 for full time students or £250 for part time students Top tip

Talk to someone! The Swansea Support Packages University Students Union offers a range of health and wellbeing and Bursaries services to suit your needs.

Since September 2017 over 20 students have accessed the Student Carer Support package and received the bursary.

Contact Details

Swansea University For more information and support Welfare@CampusLife contact Danielle Richards, Keir Hardie Building Student Life Officer Singleton Campus Swansea Universit SA2 8PP 01792 513889

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH WALES

The University of South Wales has campuses located in Cardiff, Newport, Pontypridd and Dubai. Students will find countless opportunities and award winning support to help them along the way.

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What support is During your studies available for carers? The University offers a wide range of support via a dedicated Before you start Advice Zone: • Accommodation support your course and information The Student Money Advice Team • Advice, information and resources can help current and prospective to help improve academic students with funding advice, performance through the including support with applying Study Skills Service for student finance and for the University’s own funds. You can • Dedicated support from the also receive invaluable support with Progression Advice Team completing your student finance if you are struggling with y application and checking you are our course receiving the correct entitlement. • The GO Wales team provide The Student Recruitment team an opportunity to gain work also offer a wide range of support experience during your course and information, including on- that can fit in with caring campus activities such as open days responsibilities. They also offer and residentials. support in developing your employability skills.

95% Tick the Box! of USW graduates are in work The University of South Wales or study within six months of has included a tick box in the graduation enrolment form for students to indicate whether they have caring DLHE 2018/19 responsibilities.

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Financial support Health and wellbeing

The University of South Wales The University of South Wales has recognises that caring often has a dedicated health service for all financial implications, such as USW students, which offer overall less availability for paid work and medical services alongside your GP, increased travel costs. The university pharmacist, dentist and the NHS. offers: Other health and wellbeing services include: • A carer’s bursary of £1,000 (for full time students) and £500 • Self-help resources (for part time or 6-month course students) per year to eligible USW • One-to-one mentor support students who are unpaid carers for those with a mental health condition or Autism Spectrum • Additional financial support from Disorder the Student Support Fund • Counselling

Made At Uni: success opportunities

In 2019, a student nurse from USW has created a life-changing resource hub for people with disabilities and their carers.

Contact Details

University of For more information and support South Wales contact the Student Money Pontypridd Advice team CF37 1DL 01443 483778

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A carer’s story

Former Mental Health Nursing student Lucy, 29, from Merthyr, was the sole carer for her mother, who had terminal cancer and sadly passed away whilst Lucy was studying.

Studying for my nursing degree There have been times when the alongside caring for my mam has doctors haven’t wanted to treat Mam been really tough, but in many ways, because they didn’t think she would it has been my saviour. Having pull through, but I’ve dug in my heels, something else to think about and used my nursing knowledge and focus on, just for a few hours really fought their decision. I think I get my helps. There can be a huge amount stubborn streak from her! of emotional stress with being a carer; life is unpredictable because Just because you are a carer it mam’s health varies so much. doesn’t mean you can’t follow your dreams and take on a degree at I am so lucky that I have a supportive the same time. Yes, it’s hard, but it tutor, Karyn Davies, who has pulled me is possible as long as you have the through the tough times at University, motivation and good family and practically and emotionally, and has friends around you. allowed me to not be there when I’m needed at home. I can’t - and won’t – let cancer win and dictate my life. Just as my mum My friends on the course are has fought so hard and defied many wonderful too. If I miss a class or odds, so will I. She’s so strong and when we have essays to do, they will she is my inspiration. organise study groups. And when I am having a bad day, one of them will drive over and pick me up and take me to Uni. They have been my lifeline.

Lucy’s tutor, Karyn Davies, said:

Not only is Lucy doing really well personal situation as a carer for her academically, but she is also mum she continues to demonstrate receiving positive reports and real commitment to becoming a feedback from her mentors out registered nurse. I anticipate that in clinical practice. Undertaking with support, Lucy will continue to a Mental Health nursing degree do well with her studies and become can be challenging at the best of a real champion for mental health times and despite Lucy’s current nursing.

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UNIVERSITY OF WALES: TRINITY ST. DAVID

The University of Wales: Trinity St. David (UWTSD) is a multi-campus university providing an inclusive learning experience for learners of all ages and backgrounds.

From the beautiful waterfront city of Swansea to the stunning countryside that surrounds the campuses in Carmarthen and Lampeter, all locations offer an exceptional quality of life for their students.

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What support is available for carers?

UWTSD is a widening participation Financial support university with a student cohort which reflects this. The university has extensive and proactive The UWTSD offer a range of Student Services to support all scholarships and bursaries, students with balancing their social such as: and caring life with their studies. • course-specific awards UWTSD has a framework of support in place for young adult carers, • awards to support additional skills including a supportive admissions development and employability process and a dedicated bursary. • help for specific groups such as student parents and care leavers in Before you start accessing education your course One of these bursaries is the young adult carer bursary, for students Outreach work and residential aged 18 to 25, which can amount up campus activities are organised for to £1000. young adult carers to help minimise barriers to access. You can contact Ranked 1st for ‘Counselling the Reaching Wider team at Trinity Service’ and 2nd for ‘Student St David to find out more about Services’ these opportunities.

During your studies Health and wellbeing

The Student Services at UWTSD UWTSD recognises that students students offer a multitude of need support alongside their services, such as: academic pursuits, so their student services focus on a diverse range of • Peer Assisted Study Sessions, health and wellbeing services: a peer-learning approach where higher year students run study • Mental Health Advisory Service sessions for lower year students • Access to the online resources on • Assistance with your studies the Big White Wall through the study skills support • A high-ranking Counselling team Service • Employability and CV-writing tips and advice through the Careers service

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• I did a summer University From carer to carer programme and that showed me that I was able to attend university as well as balancing my caring role and that I would • Don’t feel like you are alone – talk have support. All degree courses to someone, there will always be are different, and some are more someone to help you. flexible than others - so don’t let • Talk to staff, at least you will be on your caring role be the barrier. their radar if something happens • If you don’t go and try it, then you and you need support. will never know and potentially • There are grants and support for live to regret it. you as a carer – use them as they Alex, UWTSD Graduate are there for you.

Contact Details

University of Wales: For more information and support Trinity St. David contact the Reaching Wider Student Services team or a member of the Student Carmarthen Campus Services team Carmarthen SA31 3EP 01267675089 01570424867

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WREXHAM GLYNDŴR UNIVERSITY

Wrexham Glyndŵr University is a small, vibrant, friendly and inclusive learning community which is focused on inspiring each student by placing them firmly at the heart of everything they do. They have specialist facilities and have a wide range of support services to ensure that their students leave as confident graduates.

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What support is During your studies available for carers? The Widening Participation at Wrexham University is committed Before you start to ensuring that everyone who has the potential to achieve in higher your course education is given the chance to do so. Wrexham Glyndŵr University works Wrexham Glyndŵr University in partnership with Reaching has specific support services in Wider to prioritise young carers as the following areas which would part of their extensive school and be beneficial for carers at the community outreach programme. University: They have established relationships with organisations who support • Inclusion Services, including an young carers to identify potential assessment centre students and work collaboratively to ensure that all needs are met. • Student ASK desk team who can assist with any queries, from accommodation to health care support A carer’s • Study Support top tip • Childcare services including an onsite crèche

Keep asking for help! "Go Wrexham University also offer for counselling and drop-ins additional support to carers, which because it is tough trying to mirrors the support offered to care balance. Take time out for leavers and estranged students yourself even an hour a week and recognise the potential barriers that is not university related or facing young carers. They work caring related." tirelessly to remove these barriers by increasing knowledge and raising aspirations through tailored taster visits and by offering individualised Wrexham University was support. ranked 1st in the UK for Social Inclusion in 2019, ensuring that higher education is available to everyone and providing the best possible accessibility for all students from a wide range of backgrounds.

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Financial support Health and wellbeing

The Student Funding and Money Wrexham Glyndŵr University are Advice team can advise about dedicated to creating a supportive possible funding for full or part environment for all students, by time study, including funding for providing inclusion services such postgraduate studies, as well as as: offeringfinancial health checks to make sure you are receiving • One to one tutor support everything that you are entitled to • Counselling during your studies. • Healthcare advice The team also offersbudgeting advice to students. From money- • Specialist disability support and saving tips to one-to-one budgeting help with your DSA application, meetings, the Wrexham Glyndwr should you need it University advisers are available to answer any questions.

Contact Details

Wrexham Glyndŵr University Widening Access Mold Road Wrexham LL11 2AH 01978 293342 01978 293484

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For more information and support contact Amber Percy, Recruitment and Widening Access Coordinator

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Notes

43 © Carers Trust. Carers Trust is a registered charity in England and Wales (1145181) and in Scotland (SC042870). Registered as a company limited by guarantee in England and Wales No. 7697170. Registered office: Carers Trust, Unit 101, 164 – 180 Union Street, London SE1 0LH.