Written evidence submitted by Mrs K Cleave
I would like to express my concerns regarding EMA
grant cuts.
As a mother of a son in his early twenties, who was
in receipt of this grant whilst studying for two years at college,
to obtain his business studies BTEC National Diploma, which enabled
him to pursue his career, and become a useful member of society,
who is currently employed in a well paid position, because
of the opportunity to attend further education, I would like
to tell you how much this grant helped him.
Due to family circumstances—I am a carer for
his stepfather, with multiple health problems, the costs of attending
college, eg bus fares, and equipment etc were difficult to find.
The EMA grant was a necessity, not a luxury, for his future prospects.
I strongly disagree with cutting this grant.
There are countless young people who are hardworking
and are willing to learn, who come from poor backgrounds,
and need a helping hand to achieve their ambitions.
To remove this grant will remove their opportunity
to improve their lives.
It is not a great deal of money each week, but can
make the difference between attending/not being able to attend
college.
I have read that it is sometimes referred to
as a grant that is used by young people to waste/buy alcohol
etc.
I do not know of any young person
that wastes the grant money.
The EMA grant paid for necessities, and was greatly
appreciated.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT STOP THIS NECESSARY
GRANT FOR OUR POOREST HARDWORKING FUTURE GENERATION.
25 March 2011
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