Support Worker Central

Not all learning has costs. However, one of the most common questions asked by support workers is: "How can I fund my learning?"

• Scottish Union Learning may support group learning opportunities in the workplace. The Scottish Union Learning website provides further details.

If you want to study for a qualification you are more likely to need funding for your learning.  Funding options can include:

Part time development programmes

• Education and endowment funds from NHS Boards or your department. Contact your Learning and Development department for more information about local funding opportunities.
• Part-time fee grants (for qualifications at SCQF level 7 and above) from the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) (for example, funding a part-time HNC programme).  To get this funding, you should be 16 years of age or older and earning £25,000 per year or less. The Part-Time Undergraduate Student page within SAAS provides further details.
• Individual Training Accounts (ITAs) are available if you earn £22,000 per year or less. They can be used towards funding a wide variety of accredited learning. An ITA provides up to £200 per year towards the cost of part time learning that must be related to your work role with no requirement to pay this back. The ITA page within My World of Work provides further details. 

Full time degree programmes

• Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS)
• NHS Scotland Physiotherapy funded places scheme
• Paramedic Nursing and Midwifery Student Bursary

All eligible students can apply for a Paramedic Nursing and Midwifery Student Bursary (PNMSB). The bursary is not income assessed. The bursary rates (at Sept 2023) are:

You will have the best chance of success if you are clear about what difference the learning will make to you in your role as a support worker, and you have support from your line manager.