Written - Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)

In December I issued a statement about the delays in paying some students their Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA).  I am now able to update Members on the current position.

I have been advised that due to the contingency measures put in place by the Student Loans Company (SLC) all the backlogged applications were cleared by 26th November and the related correspondence was cleared by 5th December.  All new applications received since then have been processed within a few days.

I have been very concerned about the effect that the delays have had upon students and their families and I have kept close touch with this matter through my officials.  

I am keen to ensure that lessons are learnt from the 2008/09 application round.  At my request, SLC officials have conducted a review to identify how the processes that are currently in place can be enhanced.  It has been agreed that the following improvements will be introduced from the start of 2009/10:

1. The need to complete a birth/adoption confirmation form will be discontinued in 2009/10.  It is anticipated that this will significantly reduce the number of applications that are incomplete or missing evidence.
2. In 2009/10 applicants will be able to provide their birth certificates as the primary form of identification (although they will be able to provide a passport in evidence if they prefer).  This will assist processing and will reduce students’ anxiety about sending their passport through the post and its timely return if they want to use it; 
3. SLC will employ additional security cleared staff at peak processing times;
4. SLC will commence processing applications three weeks earlier than in 2008/09;
5. Students applying for support in their second year will be sent a renewal application form and will be encouraged to return it before the end of the summer term.