In July 2024, the SSSC announced changes to the funding arrangements for social work students on placement. To help you understand and navigate these changes, we have created a comprehensive FAQ section. The SWEP programme office has been approached to address specific FAQs, underscoring the necessity of this section.
For more details, please visit the SSSC website – Practice Learning Support Grant (PLSG) (sssc.uk.com).
For the latest update on the funding details and eligibility check this link – Practice Learning Support Grant (PLSG) – Scottish Social Services Council (sssc.uk.com)
FAQ
The new Practice Learning Support Grant (PLSG) replaces the interim Travel and Subsistence Grant that was in place during the Academic Year 2023-2024. The previous grant was calculated using a flat rate fee of £350 per student per placement, and the university was responsible for its distribution, allowing for flexibility.
The Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) will pay the grant directly to eligible students.
Students can use the grant flexibly for expenses incurred during their practice learning placements, such as:
- Travel to and from the placement location
- Personal subsistence (e.g., work clothing, meals)
- Other practical or wellbeing requirements that enable participation in practice learning
To be eligible for the grant, students must:
- Be a home student, resident according to SAAS residency criteria
- Be enrolled in a social work qualifying programme approved by the SSSC
- Be studying full-time
- Be undertaking a period of assessed practice learning (year one or two postgraduate; year three or four undergraduate) from August this year, with verification of their attendance on placement provided to the SSSC by the university and/or placement provider
- Not be sponsored by an employer for their studies (i.e., must not already be receiving payment towards programme fees or payment in lieu of studies)
All eligible students starting an assessed practice placement from August this year will receive the grant. Students will be contacted directly with guidance on how to claim the grant in September, and payments will be made from October 2024.
Eligible students will no longer claim travel directly through universities as the PLSG is intended to cover these costs. Only students who are ineligible for the PLSG should apply for support from their university. Exceptional travel costs may be supported by university discretionary funds.
The main differences are:
- Responsibility for Payment: The SSSC is now responsible for the payment of the PLSG.
- Increased Flat Rate Fee: The flat rate fee has increased from £350 to £750 per student per placement.
Yes, both undergraduate and postgraduate students can apply for Discretionary Funds. These funds are intended to provide additional financial assistance for various needs, including travel costs. For more detailed information, you can visit the Student Information Scotland website.