Following the Government’s decision to increase the participation age to 18 by 2015, Rathbone has responed to a DCSF call for evidence regarding the implication of such reforms on the financial support provided for 16 - 18 year olds.

For many disengaged and disadvantaged 16 – 18 year olds financial support is key to ensuring that participation in learning remains a realistic option. In light of the proposed reforms Rathbone seeks to reiterate the fundamental importance of sustained and meaningful financial, as well as pastoral, support for young people during these transitional years. Rathbone therefore urges the DCSF to both reassess the current means testing for the Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA) as well as address the anomalies which persist within the system. Both these issues act as financial barriers to participation by effectively hindering further progression into learning. As a way forward Rathbone advocates the greater use of non means tested support based on ‘deals’ with young people which would be dependent on good attendance and personal achievement rather than parental income. Rathbone is concerned that the imposition of compulsory learning, without a concomitant dedication to financial support, may exacerbate existing barriers and act as a barrier to learning for many young people.

Read the full response here.