Hey future social workers! Juggling postgraduate studies and parental duties? We get it, the struggle is real! But what if we told you there’s a bursary specifically designed to ease your childcare costs while you pursue your passion? If you’re a South African student aiming to do postgraduate Social Work studies in the UK, the Social Work Bursary Childcare Allowance for 2026 could be your financial superhero!
This isn’t just any funding; it’s a vital support system for those dedicated individuals pursuing a postgraduate degree in Social Work in the United Kingdom who also have childcare responsibilities. It’s part of the broader Social Work Bursary program, ensuring that parenting doesn’t become a barrier to achieving your academic and career goals.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Social Work Bursary Childcare Allowance, you generally need to meet specific criteria, especially as a postgraduate student from South Africa planning to study in the UK:
- You must be undertaking a postgraduate Social Work degree in England (or other UK nations, depending on specific program rules).
- You typically need to be eligible for the main Social Work Bursary or already receiving it.
- You must have dependent children for whom you incur childcare costs.
- Your chosen childcare provider must be registered.
- There are usually income thresholds and eligibility criteria related to your household income.
It’s super important to check the official guidelines as these can change!
What Does It Cover?
This allowance is specifically designed to help you with the financial burden of childcare while you’re busy hitting the books and gaining practical experience. It typically covers a portion of your eligible childcare costs, which can include:
- Fees for registered nurseries.
- Costs for approved childminders.
- Expenses for out-of-school care.
Remember, it’s an allowance to assist, not necessarily to cover 100% of your costs, so plan your budget accordingly. The exact amount you can receive will depend on your circumstances and the rates set by the bursary provider.
How to Apply?
Ready to get this childcare support? Here’s a general rundown of how to apply, but always head to the official source for the most accurate and up-to-date instructions:
- Check Eligibility: First, ensure you meet all the criteria for both the main Social Work Bursary and the specific Childcare Allowance.
- Obtain Application Forms: The application for the Childcare Allowance is often a separate form, which you can usually find on the official NHS Business Services Authority website.
- Gather Documents: You’ll likely need proof of your postgraduate Social Work course, details of your childcare provider, evidence of your children’s ages, and financial information.
- Submit on Time: Pay close attention to the closing date! Applications are typically processed within 20 working days, so getting your application in well before the deadline is crucial. For the 2026 intake, make sure your application for this allowance is submitted by 15 September 2026.
For the most accurate and official application details, please visit the official NHSBSA Social Work Bursary website:
Apply for the Social Work Bursary Childcare Allowance here!
If this sounds like the right bursary for you, don’t wait — apply now and explore more amazing bursaries on Bursaries Room!
