Is it possible to get more financial aid for studies beyond SFE?

[janeeire244]

Is there anyway to get more money for your maintenance loan from Student Finance - ie more than the maximum because often that is not enough for students from disadvantaged backgrounds?

Is there like extra money you can get on top if you’re really poor or if you’ve been in care? I’m not just talking about extra financial support from your university but I’m talking about from the council or government in general?

I read somewhere that if you’ve been in care your council could give you as a student £1000 a year - this is separate from any money your university could award you.

Any thoughts?

know care leavers get some extra support but I think everyone else has to work.

Oh if you get PIP then that doesn't count as 'income'.

I'm not up to date but if you were 'signed off' by your GP over the summer break you used to be able to get benefits over the summer.