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Young people aged between 16 and 19  who live in the Falkirk Council area are being reminded that they could be entitled to £30 per week to help them to stay on in full time education.

Falkirk Council is aiming to increase the uptake of Educational Maintenance Allowances (EMAs) for all young people who qualify by pushing a campaign across schools in January 2017 explaining their entitlement.

Around 500 pupils in the local area currently receive EMAs and dozens more are expected to sign up to the scheme before the cut off date of 31 March 2017.

To qualify for an EMA, 100% attendance is needed and a learning agreement signed by the pupil and the school (these can reflect individual circumstances such as being a carer). In addition, household income must be less than £24,421 a year (£26,884 if they have siblings).

The student must be attending full-time education in schools or colleges or are being home educated.

Councillor Alan Nimmo, Falkirk Council’s spokesperson for Education said: “EMAs provide £30 per week for young people who qualify and may be struggling to continue with their studies. At this time especially of year we know that finances can be difficult.

“The allowance has helped thousands of pupils by giving them extra security to carry on learning.

“It can have a really positive impact on young people who are having financial difficulties.”

EMAs are funded by Scottish Government and administered by Falkirk Council locally.

More information is available from the EMA page or by contacting the helpline on 01324 506070.