From the start of the 2026 to 2027 academic year, eligible dietetic students will receive upfront support with travel and accommodation costs associated with practice-based learning (placements).
It means students will no longer have to pay out of their own pockets before claiming the money back. Instead, they will be able to receive advance payments for practice-based learning related travel and accommodation costs from the NHS Learning Support Fund.
Susan Price, Chair of the BDA, said, “No student should have to choose between completing practice-based learning and managing their finances. The BDA warmly welcomes these improvements to the Learning Support Fund, which will provide much needed support to dietetic students and reduce cash-flow pressures during practice-based learning.
“The changes will be especially beneficial for students from less advantaged backgrounds, and those travelling longer distances to more rural and remote practice-based learning. By making practice-based learning more accessible, this development strengthens the pipeline of future dietitians and support continued growth of the profession.”
Health Minister, Alison McGovern, said, “These advance payments will put money in students’ pockets before costs hit, easing pressure on budgets and helping NHS staff get the experience they need, whether that is in a city hospital or a remote coastal community.
“This is another step in delivering our 10 Year Health Plan, backing students, breaking down barriers to training and building the NHS workforce patients need for the future.”
