What happens to my SFE as my tutor is suggesting to interrupt now

Hi! I’m a second year student on a 3 year course. I have spoken to my personal tutor and they have suggested that the best course of action is to interrupt my studies now before I fail my exams, and return for September instead and repeat 2nd year.

Due to bereavement issues last year and then a work incident involving one of my parents, it has caused a lot of mental stress for me. Having to look after both my parents (one is old) during that period has impacted my studies quite a lot, which resulted in lack of attendance in most of my modules and placement. Because my parent was out of work for more than 6 months, finance has been quite an issue too.

My tutor wants me to interrupt my studies now and return in September with the 2023 Cohort instead. Due to my mental health and constant illness that came along with it, my tutor informed me that the most they can do regarding my finances is a 60 day extension (as well as a referral to occupational health).

At the moment it is currently near the end of April going to May. My SFE has been used to help my family as my parent is finally getting back to work this week. What happens to the SFE given in April when I interrupt next week (Late April, beginning of May)? And what other financial options are available to me?

I would also like to ask if I’m available for SFE for my repeat 2nd Year. This is my first time doing a full time higher education course.

Thank you for your time.

Reply 1

Claire SFE

Official Rep

Original post by RedRabbit257

Hi! I’m a second year student on a 3 year course. I have spoken to my personal tutor and they have suggested that the best course of action is to interrupt my studies now before I fail my exams, and return for September instead and repeat 2nd year.
Due to bereavement issues last year and then a work incident involving one of my parents, it has caused a lot of mental stress for me. Having to look after both my parents (one is old) during that period has impacted my studies quite a lot, which resulted in lack of attendance in most of my modules and placement. Because my parent was out of work for more than 6 months, finance has been quite an issue too.
My tutor wants me to interrupt my studies now and return in September with the 2023 Cohort instead. Due to my mental health and constant illness that came along with it, my tutor informed me that the most they can do regarding my finances is a 60 day extension (as well as a referral to occupational health).
At the moment it is currently near the end of April going to May. My SFE has been used to help my family as my parent is finally getting back to work this week. What happens to the SFE given in April when I interrupt next week (Late April, beginning of May)? And what other financial options are available to me?
I would also like to ask if I’m available for SFE for my repeat 2nd Year. This is my first time doing a full time higher education course.
Thank you for your time.

Hi there,

If you suspend from your course we require the university to advise us its due to health reasons so we can see if we can award the additional 60 days finance. They send this with the change of circumstances to confirm you're suspending. Once received, we will then work out what you should have been paid for the length of time you attended. If you have been paid too much, this will be classed as an overpayment and be due to be repaid straight away, or if you're coming back this will come off the following years entitlement.

Thanks,
Claire