Starting university is a major milestone—but for students transitioning from care, it can come with unique challenges. Recognising this, the University of Westminster offers a comprehensive support system for care leavers, designed to make higher education more accessible, stable, and successful.
From free accommodation opportunities and bursaries to academic and career guidance, the university provides tailored support to help care-experienced students thrive throughout their studies.
Quick Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program | Support for Care Leavers |
| Institution | University of Westminster |
| Study Level | Undergraduate & Postgraduate |
| Financial Support | Up to £1,000 bursary/year |
| Accommodation | Priority access + scholarships |
| Additional Support | Academic, personal & career guidance |
| Key Deadlines | 19 June 2026 (Accommodation Scholarship), 26 June 2026 (Bursary) |
| Dedicated Advisor | Anne McGrath |
Who Are Care Leavers?
A care leaver is defined as a young person who has spent time in Local Authority care, including:
- Foster care
- Residential care homes
- Public care systems
- Semi-independent living arrangements
These students often face additional barriers when entering higher education, such as financial constraints, lack of family support, and housing insecurity.
The University’s Commitment to Care Leavers
The University of Westminster is committed to creating equal opportunities by:
- Increasing access to higher education for care-experienced students
- Raising awareness of the unique challenges care leavers face
- Supporting students throughout their academic journey
- Collaborating with local authorities and national frameworks
- Helping students complete their degrees successfully
This commitment ensures that care leavers are not just admitted—but supported every step of the way.
Dedicated Support Advisor
One of the standout features of this program is personalized guidance.
Anne McGrath, the university’s Care Leaver Adviser and Coordinator, serves as your main point of contact. Based within Student Advice, she provides:
- Confidential one-on-one support
- Help navigating university systems
- Assistance with academic and personal challenges
- Advocacy when communicating with tutors or departments
This dedicated support ensures you always have someone to turn to during your studies.
Accommodation Support
Priority Access to Student Housing
Care leavers receive priority consideration for university accommodation, ensuring:
- A secure place to live throughout your studies
- Access to student halls year-round
- Reduced risk of housing instability
To access this benefit, students typically need:
- A confirmation letter from their Leaving Care team
- Evidence of care leaver status
Unite Foundation Accommodation Scholarships
The university partners with the Unite Foundation to offer fully funded accommodation scholarships.
These scholarships provide:
- Free student housing for the entire duration of your course
- Accommodation in Unite student halls
- Year-round access (including holidays)
Deadline: 19 June 2026
For more details and the application, click here.
Apply here:
Unite Foundation Scholarship Application
Financial Support: Care Leaver Bursary
Eligible students can apply for a Care Leaver Bursary worth:
- Up to £1,000 per year
Eligibility:
- Must be a UK (Home) student
- Known as an independent care leaver
This funding helps cover:
- Living expenses
- Study materials
- Day-to-day costs
Application Deadline: 26 June 2026
Students unsure about eligibility can contact Student Advice for an Engage Appointment.
Academic Support
Adjusting to university academics can be challenging—but support is readily available:
- Personal tutors provide one-on-one academic guidance
- Help with coursework, assignments, and study planning
- Additional support through Student Advice if needed
If communication with tutors becomes difficult, Anne McGrath can step in to assist and advocate on your behalf.
Why This Support Matters
Students from care backgrounds are significantly underrepresented in higher education. Programs like this aim to:
- Reduce inequality in university access
- Improve student retention and success rates
- Provide stability and confidence for independent living
By addressing financial, academic, and emotional needs, the University of Westminster ensures that care leavers can focus on achieving their full potential.
FAQs
1. Who qualifies as a care leaver?
Anyone who has been in local authority care, including foster care or residential homes.
2. Do care leavers get free accommodation?
Not automatically, but they receive priority housing and can apply for fully funded accommodation scholarships.
3. How much is the Care Leaver Bursary?
Up to £1,000 per year, depending on eligibility.
4. Is there a dedicated support person?
Yes, Anne McGrath is the Care Leaver Adviser who provides ongoing support.
5. Can care leavers access career support?
Yes, full career and employability services are available to help with job planning and placement.
CHECK THESE OUT:
Battersea Scholarship 2026/2027 at the University of Surrey (Up to £16,000 Funding)
Commonwealth Accommodation Scholarship (CAS) Indigenous 2026
