Accommodation While on Placement

Students enrolled on the Primary PGCE programme at the University of Cumbria are encouraged to explore short-term university accommodation, particularly if their permanent residence is in the North West of England or Northern Ireland. These flexible accommodation options can support students during placement periods when travel may be required.

For students whose home address is in Northern Ireland, there is an opportunity, to complete the final placement within Northern Ireland. This option provides added convenience and supports students in managing travel and living arrangements during their final teaching experience. For details on the accommodation offered by the University, please visit the Accommodation page.

Students enrolled on Health and Social Care Professional programmes within the Institute of Health may be required to stay in temporary accommodation during placement periods. This is particularly relevant for students who do not drive and may face challenges accessing rural placement locations in areas such as Cumbria and Lancashire via public transport.

To support students with these circumstances, the NHS Business Services Authority Learning Support Fund offers financial assistance. Eligible students may be able to claim back the cost of temporary accommodation through the Travel and Dual Accommodation Expenses (TDAE) scheme.

As stated in NHS guidance:
“As part of the Travel and Dual Accommodation Expenses (TDAE) arrangements, you may be able to claim the cost of taking temporary accommodation near to your practice placement site if it is not possible or practical for you to travel there from your normal term-time address on a daily basis.”

For full details and to check eligibility, please visit the NHS Business Services Authority Learning Support Fund.