Thomas Wall Trust - Thomas Wall Trust Grant

What the Thomas Wall Trust Grant gives you

You will receive up to 1,750 EUR (£1,500) as a one-off grant to help fund vocational training in the UK. The grant covers the course fees for a recognised vocational training course up to level 3 (roughly equivalent to A-levels or a technical qualification). Up to approximately 875 EUR (£750) can be used for associated costs such as childcare, travel expenses and equipment. The Trust is a London-based charity that helps adults to further their education in order to improve their prospects in the labour market. If your course lasts longer than one year, you can reapply by demonstrating that you have made good progress.

Who can apply

• Age: You are 18 or older.
• Where you study: Your degree programme takes place in the UK. There is no financial support available for studying or working abroad.
• Course type: A recognised vocational training course up to level 3. GCSE qualifications, A-levels, higher education qualifications, non-recognised courses and basic courses in mathematics and English are not eligible for funding.
• Your situation: You are facing financial and personal difficulties, for example because of a disability, mental health issues, care responsibilities, because you have been discharged from a care home, because you are estranged from your family, or because you are learning English.
• Income: You come from a low-income household, as determined by the online minimum income calculator.
• Right to be here: You have the right to work and study in the United Kingdom.
• No degree: You do not yet have a university degree.
• Field of study: Any subject related to a particular profession is permitted, provided it complies with the rules set out above.
• Preferred: Your chances are better if you have been unemployed for at least 6 months in the last 2 years, have little work experience or low educational qualifications, have been living in the UK for at least 3 years, or have a clear plan for how you intend to find a job.

How to apply

Applications are made online via the Trust’s funding portal. You will also need a letter of recommendation from a professional who is not related to you. The programme generally runs throughout the year and funding is allocated on a ‘first come, first served’ basis, so there is no fixed application deadline. The processing time is approximately 8 weeks.

How realistic are your chances?

This funding is aimed at a specific target group: low-income adults in the United Kingdom who are in genuine need, are undertaking a vocational training course up to level 3, and do not yet hold a higher education qualification. If you clearly meet these criteria, your chances are good. As funding is allocated on a ‘first come, first served’ basis and resources are limited, it is advisable to apply early in the year.