In a message dated 17/09/05 11:20:52 GMT Daylight Time, [log in to unmask]
writes:
<< The 'travel' costs arising in this case would be covered by Non Medical
Helpers' Allowance, not Extra Travel Costs. I 'd have no problem with
the principle of using NMH allowance in this way - but the costs in this
case would be rather high and probably couldn't be fully covered by the
DSA, especially if DSA is covering notetaking etc, too. >>
No, I think you are wrong there. If a student can travel by public transport
their costs are not covered. If their travel costs would be higher than this
of a non disabled student (eg travel by taxi or in this case with a helper)
then the DSA could pay the extra costs.
The DSA should not be used to fund what one might call 'standard travel
costs' because a student feels that a course at x (100 miles away) is more suited
to their needs (arising from the disability) than a local course. However, if
they select that course then the DSA will pay the additional travel costs.
The student in question cannot therefore claim their own train fare from the
DSA but should be able to claim train fare for a helper. However, if this
helper is a student at the university who is agreeing to travel with the student
then their train fare should not be paid (however, they might still be paid an
hourly rate for travelling with the student).
I have to say that like Peter, I doubt the wisdom of this choice of study
method. Travelling from Worcestershire / Gloucestershire to London 3 times a week
is no fun! We both live in the region so we should know.
Mick Trott
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