The University has confirmed its support for students who are estranged from their families by submitting its pledge to the UK charity Stand Alone.
Through this pledge, Kent has committed to supporting estranged students in accessing and succeeding in higher education through a dedicated financial package. This includes a one-off cash bursary of £600 towards the cost of starting at university and a one-off payment of £100 towards graduation costs for students who attend their graduation ceremony.
Estranged students are also guaranteed University accommodation for 365 days of the year for the entire duration of their course.
Professor Karen Cox, Kent’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, said: ‘I greatly value the opportunity to make this pledge which states our commitments to our estranged students and demonstrates our recognition of the challenges that they may face. I am particularly pleased that we have made this submission during Estranged Students Solidarity Week.’
Through this pledge, Professor Cox also emphasised that Kent is ‘committed to engaging with our estranged students to better understand the challenges they face and how we may continue to support them to achieve their goals’.
Estranged students can obtain information, advice and support on how to apply for funding, associated benefits and independent status from the University’s Financial Aid office. They are also a priority group within the Access to Learning Fund.
Pastoral support is also available through Student Support and Wellbeing Services.