EMA replacement could lead to discrimination, says report

Wed, 04 May 2011

The government's plan to abolish the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) could lead to discrimination, it has been warned.

Under the plans, the EMA, which currently costs £500 million a year, will be replaced by a £180 million bursary fund .

However, a government Equality Impact Assessment has warned the new system could be open to discrimination as colleges and schools will be able to decide who gets the bursaries, BBC News reports.

"We will consider whether there should be some central arbitration of the discretionary administration of funding or at least ensure transparency of administration to evaluate the impact achieved by providers, including value for public money," the assessment said.

The government has previously claimed that education professionals will be given "full flexibility" over administering funds.

Those in full-time education or training aged between 16 and 19 will be able to apply for the money for the coming academic year.
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