Advanced Learning Loans for Offenders in Custody

The UK government has introduced 24+ Advanced Learning Loans for learners aged 24 plus offenders in custody studying at Level 3 or Level 4. The move gives offenders a chance to gain qualifications while serving their sentence.

It will applies for offenders applying to study on a 24+ Advanced Learning Loan funded qualification in custody and whilst on Release on Temporary Licence (ROTL). To be eligible for a loan the offender must be 24 or over at the start of the course, the course needs to be at an approved college or training centre in England, be living in the UK on the course start date and have lived in the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man for three years before the course starts and be a UK national / settles status. Those with an EU national, a refugee, or have humanitarian protection may also be entitled.

Credit history and income will not determine eligibility.
As a criminal defence solicitors we are pleased with this introduction. It’s important that offenders can continue education so that they can start to rebuild their life once their sentence is complete and education plays a major factor in the rehabilitation process.

This government document has full details: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/339670/24__Advanced_Learning_Loans_Guidance_for_Offenders.pdf

We’re happy to discuss anything in more detail, so please get in touch. Do you agree with it? Tell us what you think via twitter: @Ogarras