Waveney MP Peter Aldous today commented on the Government announcement of a new university scholarships scheme for the children of servicemen and women killed on active duty to support bereaved families and help them to rebuild their lives.

The new scholarships will help with the costs of getting a degree or going into further education.

Mr Aldous said:
“This is an excellent initiative by the Government to offer support to the families of those brave servicemen and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. The scheme will help to ensure that children who have lost a parent on active duty are not disadvantaged if they decide to study at university. I would urge anyone in the Waveney constituency who feels they may be eligible for the scheme, or who knows someone who may be to make contact with the Department of Business Innovation and Skills on: 020 7215 5000 or seek more information via www.bis.gov.uk”

The Government also confirmed it will continue to help fund an existing programme which supports service leavers to undertake a first further or higher education qualification, and will provide funding to help enhance the scheme.

In the future eligible servicemen and women will be able to apply for support after they have served a minimum of four years. Those medically discharged will not be subject to a minimum service requirement, and entitlement may be transferred to a partner or spouse in certain circumstances.