A Jersey parent has expressed fears that her child may need to rely on a food bank while at university, as their government grant falls short of covering all living expenses.
The income thresholds for means-tested financial aid for Jersey students have remained unchanged since 2018, despite rising inflation. Consequently, families whose incomes have risen with inflation now find themselves ineligible for the same level of financial support.
Deputy Rob Ward, Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, has pledged to review support for higher education students and provide an update by the end of October.
The concerned parent, who chose to stay anonymous, said the high costs might force her child to abandon university plans. She explained, "There are two possible outcomes: either my child gives up on their dream, or we consider leaving Jersey altogether. I may have to leave a relatively well-paid job here to move to the UK, where they could have more opportunities."
Deputy Catherine Curtis, head of the Children, Education, and Home Affairs Panel, noted that students in 2018 received the maximum grant if their household income was £50,000 or less. However, inflation means that this threshold would be equivalent to £67,000 today, creating a gap in support.
Curtis expressed concern about families going into debt to support their children’s education, saying, "No one should be denied the opportunity of a degree. If anyone is struggling, they should first reach out to student finance, and they’re also welcome to contact me—I’ve helped others through the appeals process."
Nicki Heath, who leads the Jersey Student Loans Support Group, highlighted growing difficulties for students and families, noting that two parents on living wages now exceed the full maintenance grant threshold.
“Maintaining housing costs alone has become nearly as expensive as tuition fees,” she said, adding that rent often reaches £8,500, not including additional living and travel costs for students.