At City, University of London, we recognise that starting university can be an exciting but at times challenging process. This is why we offer support to students who have spent time in local authority care through our City Cares programme from application stage, through to graduation and searching for employment. We also offer pre-entry advice and guidance through our Widening Participation Outreach team.
City Cares is City’s dedicated, comprehensive programme of support for care-experienced, young adult carers, young estranged students and asylum seekers. We are committed to providing financial, pastoral and educational support, for every student in the City Cares community.
Pre-entry Support
The Widening Participation Outreach team offers a range of events and activities for students thinking about university and those who would like support to prepare them for university. Alongside the City Cares Designated Member of Staff (DMS), you can pre-entry support such as application advice, 1:1 bespoke visit days, Taster Weeks, and Pre-Induction events.
Financial Support
Care experienced students may access a variety of financial support packages including: Care Leavers Bursary worth £3,500 annually, as well as other funds such as the Hardship Fund.
We also offer a Graduation Package for care-experienced students in their final year. Students will be given an outro meeting with the Designated Member of Staff as well as an appointment with a careers consultant. Upon attending both appointments, City will help cover the costs of graduation including gown hire, photos, and two family/friend tickets.
Accommodation
Care-experienced students (throughout their entire degree) are prioritised for City’s partner student accommodation providing they have City as their firm choice by the UCAS deadline.
Details for who to contact for enquiries
For more information, please contact the City Cares Designated Member of Staff Natasha Mutch-Vidal