Funding Sources for Post Qualifying Education
Saturday, May 24th, 2008Sadly there are only a limited range of funding sources available to support students undertaking Post-Qualifying awards in social work within the revised PQ Framework. At a time when resources are being limited it should be a matter of concern to the profession that there are no ring fenced funds for post qualifying education and training in England. Whilst some employers are very generous there is a marked lack of consistency about access to post qualifying training especially at higher specialist and advanced level. Voluntary organisations are particularly hard pressed to support their staff.
Maybe we need a performance indicator or benchmark for the investment in post qualifying training made by social work employers or do we still have to argue the business case?
Funding sources in England include:
Local Authority Grants
From April 2008, the Adult Social Care Workforce contribution (Department of Health) and Children’s Social Care Workforce contribution (Department for Children Schools and Families) will form part of local authorities non-ring fenced Area Based Grant. These grants are to assist with the training and development of the social care workforce, and it is recommended that local authority employers support post-qualification training via these grants. These funding streams replace the National Training Strategy and Human Resource Development Strategy grants previously provided.
Post Qualifying Bursary Fund
Skills for Care and the Children’s Workforce Development Council jointly offer bursaries for PQ Awards in social work for candidates who do not have an employer including locum, freelance or independent social workers. For further information about eligibility contact your regional office at www.skillsforcare.org.uk or www.cwdcouncil.org.uk
Career Development Loans
Social workers can apply for an interest-free Career Development Loan (CDL) of between £300 and £8,000 to fund vocational, work-related courses. These are available through Barclays Bank, The Co-operative Bank and The Royal Bank of Scotland as a result of an arrangement with the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) for candidates who are unable to pay for the course themselves; are not eligible for any other funding; and are intending to work in the European Union upon completion. See www.direct.gov.uk/cdl for details.
Educational Trust and Grant Funding
Educational trusts are charitable organisations that award grants for educational purposes to organizations or individuals. Eligibility criteria for funding are varied with limited criteria, such as only assisting study for a particular profession; at a specific academic level; or relating to a specific geographical area. Some universities offer bursaries. Further information from public libraries or the university you are interested in attending.
Social Workers’ Educational Trust (SWET)
SWET aims to assist qualified social workers to develop their knowledge and skills; encourage research into social work practice; and educate the public about the nature of social work. Small grants up to £300 are available for social workers with at least two years post qualifying practice. The Trust also grants more substantial annual research scholarships. www.socialworkerseducationaltrust.org.uk
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