Have you come to university from being in care? Or are you estranged from your parents?
If you grew up in foster care or children’s homes, or if you’ve come to university as an independent student because you’re no longer in contact with your family, then the start of a new semester can feel daunting, whether it’s your first, second or final year. Students having to manage on their own without the back-up of a close family network might sometimes feel a little isolated or unsure where to turn for basic advice or if something serious happens. Here are a few top tips for care leavers and students who are estranged from their families:
- Find out what financial support you’re eligible for. You could receive a £2000 leaving care bursary from your local authority if you’re a care leaver. You can also receive a full benefits and welfare check from our Students’ Union Advice Centre. Just call 0114 225 4148 to book an appointment or call into the HUBs. Undergraduate care leavers can also apply for a £1500 per year bursary from Sheffield Hallam University. See here for details of the eligibility criteria. If you’re estranged from your family, you might also want to talk to one of our Student Funding and Money Skills advisers about your funding situation. Visit a Student Services Centre or call 0114 225 3813.
- Join a club or society. It’s one of the best ways to meet people and have fun. Check out hallamstudentsunion.com to see a list of societies.
- If you start to feel lonely or isolated, speak to someone. Many students struggle to settle into university life, so you’re not alone. But we understand that there may be more complicated feelings if you’re coming from care and you may not be sure who to turn to for support. We can help you through until you’re feeling more confident and settled. Get in touch with the Student Services Centres to speak with an adviser.
- Keep a note of key contacts at the University. You may never need to call on them for support, but it’s good to know where they are if you do. See our Welcome Booklet for details.
- Join the SHU GoGlobal Facebook group to find out about social activities and meet students from different countries at facebook.com/groups/SHUGoGlobal
- Celebrate National Care Leavers’ Week with us – you can find out full details here.
- Start thinking about your career early. Take advantage of the specialist Careers and Employability support for care leavers. Contact Maggie (0114 225 6736 or m.bamford@shu.ac.uk) or Caroline H (0114 225 2565 or c.hanson@shu.ac.uk).
- Be yourself and enjoy it!
