Benefits can either be means tested benefits or non-means tested.  The difference between the two is that means-tested benefits depend on your income and savings.  If you have a high income, you are more likely to get fewer benefits and vice versa.  Non-means tested benefits do not depend on your income at all, but on the situation that you are in.

Unfortunately, if you're under 18 your rights to benefits are limited.  An Education Maintenance Allowance is a means-tested allowance, paid to the student, to support those going on to sixth form or college courses.  Your school has application forms, or you can register online.

If you are going to university, financial support from the Government is available via means-tested student loans and grants.  These are assessed and administered by Student Finance England  Bursaries and awards from your university may also be available. 

If you're on a training placement or are a student under 19 in relevant education and are having to live away from home for a good reason, you may be able to claim income support.  Otherwise, 16 -17 year olds can apply to Jobcentre Plus for a ‘discretionary hardship award’ for a few weeks at a time.

Care to Learn: help with childcare while you learn

If you’re under 20 and have one or more children, Care to Learn can help with the cost of your childcare while you learn.

If you are a young parent, Care to Learn can help pay for your childcare and travel costs while you’re learning. The subject or course you take is entirely up to you. You can choose, for example, whether you want a qualification or not, or whether you want to learn at a college or through work. Wherever you learn, you can be confident that your child is being safely looked after.

If you’d like to speak to someone to see if you qualify, or to help you apply, phone the Care to Learn helpline on 0845 600 2809.

A Bridging Allowance is for all unemployed under 18s who have worked since the child benefit period ended, and for all unemployed under 18s who are disabled.  Housing benefit helps those who are unemployed or on low incomes to pay rent.  To find out if you can claim, contact the Housing Benefit department of your local council.  At 18+ unemployed people can claim Jobseekers Allowance.

There are other benefits you may be entitled to if you are on low earnings, disabled, sick or have a family.

If you have any queries regarding money speak to your Connexions Personal Adviser or contact Connexions Direct.