University to offer Unite Foundation scholarships for care experienced and estranged students

The scholarships will provide care experienced and estranged students with up to three years of free, year-round accommodation, ensuring stability and security during a crucial stage in their education. These scholarships are effective and currently the only intervention evidenced at Office for Students Tier 2 level to significantly improve progression, completion and attainment outcomes of care experienced students.

The scholarship scheme is a partnership between the University of Chester and the charity, with both partners contributing funds to ensure a stable home at university for up to three years.

Deputy Director of Student Services at the University, Kara Joynson, said: “For care experienced and estranged students, university can bring additional challenges – particularly when it comes to housing security and support networks.

“Our partnership with Unite helps ensure that students have a safe place to live, the security they need to focus on their studies, and make the most of their university experience. We hope this scholarship provides not only practical support but also the confidence, sense of belonging and opportunity for students to achieve their potential, build meaningful connections and feel valued as members of our university community.”

Kate Brown, Unite Foundation Co-Director, added: “We are proud to be working with the University of Chester and welcome their important commitment to the academic success of care experienced and estranged students.”

The partnership means the University is part of the Unite Foundation’s largest ever network of university partners: a total of 41 Higher Education Institutions across England, Scotland and Wales. Together, these partners will support the largest ever cohort of Unite Foundation scholarships – with another 110 students benefitting from a home at university. Established in 2012, the Unite Foundation was founded by Unite Students, the UK’s largest manager and developer of student accommodation.

More information about support for care experienced and estranged students at the University of Chester is available here. Learn more on the Unite Foundation scholarships and the #HomeAtUniversity campaign at the Unite Foundation website.