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NASMA WORKING FOR YOU CONFERENCE 2015

St John’s Hotel, Solihull

Monday 29th June 11.00-11.15 Welcome

11.15-12.00 Cross Nations Plenary

12.10-12.30 SLC Quality Mark Plenary

12.30-13.15 AGM

Workshop 1 14:15-15:45

Introduction to Students & Welfare Benefits

Consumer Credit

Licenses

Domestic Violence and Young People

Challenges of Student

Funding for Part-Time Students

Is there any funding I can apply

for?

Professionalising Student Money

Advice using NASMA’s Values

Support for Young Adult

Carers in Higher

Education

Networking and NASMA Marketplace

Workshop 2 16:15 – 17:45

Interactive Engagement

with Students

Payday Loans

Moving on, Money Skills for

Finalists

Responding to

Emergencies

Introduction to the

Residency Team at SFE

Prevent Student Support

Calculations

Tuesday 30th June 9.00-10.15 Keynote: Pay Day Loan Plenary

Workshop 3 10.15-12.15

Students and Social Security Benefits

Dealing with Debt 1

Hardship Funds 24+ Advanced Learning

Loans

Delivering Innovative

Content

Introduction to Student Funding

Part 1

Introduction to Previous Study

Rules

Workshop 4 13.00-15.00

Students and

Universal Credit

Dealing with Debt 2

Dealing with Difficult People/ Communications

SFA Update Disability – What you need to

know

Introduction to Student Funding

Part 2

Taking Time Out

Networking and NASMA Marketplace

Workshop 5 15.30-16.30

Students and Tax Credits

Mental Health

Awareness

EU Applications and Funding

What’s new in NAMSS

Credit Reference

Reports (Credit

where it’s due)

Postgraduate Funding

Appeals and Complaints

Wednesday 1st July 9.30-10.30 UNITE Student Experience Survey Results

Workshop 6 10.30-12.30

Disability Benefits 1

Introduction to

StepChange Debt

Charity and Debt

Students and Gambling

Estrangement MALG and the debt

and Mental Health

Evidence Form

DSA NHS Student Bursaries and Social Work

Bursaries Funding

Overview

Workshop 7 13:15-14:30

Disability Benefits 2

Fitness to Study

Regulations

Consumer Protection Law

in HE

Funding for Placement

years

NSMW 2016

Gaining Insights into Student

Services

Cultural Issues – Money and

Communication

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How much will it cost?

Full Conference Day delegate (no accommodation or dinner included)

Sunday Accommodation

NASMA Member £500pp £120pp (per day) £100pp

External Delegate £615pp £180pp (per day) £100pp

Workshop Descriptions

Monday 29th June 2015, Workshop 1 (14:15-15:45) Introduction to Benefits Trainer: Eri Mountbatten – Aberystwyth Guild of Students, NASMA Member Session Description: The workshop will focus on three main areas: Overview of the main groups eligible for welfare support under the current system with a brief excursion into changes under universal credit; and Overview of interactions between student funding & welfare Dealing with some of the tricky areas of students and welfare Aimed at: Delegates that are new to welfare benefits or those wanting a basic refresher session Trainer Profile: Eri Mountbatten is a student adviser specialising in welfare and money advice for

Aberystwyth University Students’ Union. Eri is a freelance writer, researcher, trainer and founder of WinWin Training, a company focusing on welfare reform training and campaign work. He has been interviewed by the BBC on the topic of students and money and has written for the British Council (Education UK) and Adviser magazine. Eri also engages in public policy via his strategic board work and is on the committee Board for NAWRA and Financial Capability & Research Board for NASMA.

Consumer Credit Licences Trainer: Alex Macdermott – FCA Session Description: NASMA are still awaiting a session description from the FCA. The session is intended to provide NASMA members with a chance to liaise with FCA in regards to the FCA License application process. This should help members understand the application process and discuss the requirements and expectations of the FCA. Aimed at: Delegates involved in the FCA license application process Trainer profile: Not yet available Domestic Violence and Young People Trainer: Fiona Douglas & Andrea Davis, Birmingham & Solihull Women’s Aid Session Description: A brief overview of facts and figures around Domestic Violence and young people, looking at the nature of domestic violence in young people’s relationships and the barriers that young women face when accessing support and leaving an abusive relationship. Aimed at: Delegates who deal with vulnerable students Trainer Profile: Fiona has worked for BSWAID for 15 years employed in various roles Children and

Family Support Worker, Family Support Worker, Outreach Worker, Gangs Project, Think Family

Intensive Support Worker and a Young Women’s Worker. She enjoys raising awareness with both

professional and young people about such specialised and sensitive issues of the support that is

available. Andrea has worked in the domestic violence field for nearly 20 years in various roles, refuge

worker, outreach worker, family support and training

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Challenges of Student Funding for Part-Time Students Trainer: Scott Miller, Birkbeck College Session Description: An overview of student funding issues and challenges facing part-time students since the introduction of higher fees and student loans in 2012. The perspective from an institution with a high proportion of part-time students, followed by discussion. Aimed at: Delegates who support part time students Trainer Profile: Scott has been the Senior Higher Education Manager in Registry at Birkbeck College

for 7 years. Previously worked at City University and London South Bank University. Also currently a postgraduate part-time student.

Is there Any Funding I Can Apply For? Trainer: Claire Evenden – University of Greenwich, NASMA Member Description: With the Access to Learning Fund seemingly on the decline, this is a question you may be getting asked a little more often. So, what can you do to ensure that your students are not left in financial hardship? This session will discuss the possibilities of alternative sources of funding and how you might be able to find and secure some of it for your students. It would be useful to have some form of electronic device for internet access during this session. Aimed at: Delegates who deal with hardship funds/students in hardship and/or bid for funds. Trainer profile: Claire is the manager of the Funds, Awards and Bursaries Team and has been an advisor at the University of Greenwich for 20 years. She administers all the university and philanthropic awards available at Greenwich and manages the delivery of various IAG services including Federal Aid. She has been a board member and Treasurer or NASMA and as a member is a regular attendee at conferences. Professionalising Student Money Advice using NASMA’s Values Trainer: Rob Ellis – University of Swansea, NASMA Chair Session Description: The Money Advice sector is becoming increasingly specialized and with the loss of ring fenced Hardship Funds it is ever more important that NASMA members prove and evidence their need of resources in a professional manner. This session will be discussion based around best practise within the sector and will consider other issues such as QAA requirements. Following a year-long consultation with members, NASMA will also release its set of Working Values to members during the conference and this session will consider how members can quickly and easily implement and evidence these values within their working structures. Aimed at: Managers and experienced advisors who are interested in the continuous improvement of their service by discussing best practice within the sector. Trainer Profile: Rob is a Financial Information Advisor at Swansea University and is the current NASMA

Chair. He has been heavily involved with the NASMA Board over the last 3 years having previously been Treasurer and Welsh co-ordinator. Within his tenure as Chair he is keen to raise the profile of the work NASMA members do by increasing the professionalism of NASMA as an organisation. To do this, he immediately set about liaising with members in order to create a set of NASMA values with the intention of demonstrating the collective ambition of NASMA members for continuously improving performance and providing service excellence.

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Support for Young Adult Carers Trainer: Phil Bakstad – Liverpool John Moores University, NASMA Member Session Description: In light of the recent introduction of the Care Act (2014) in April 2015, this session

will examine the specific needs of this group of vulnerable students in the context of current examples

of good practice from across the sector.

Aimed at: Delegates interested in supporting Young Adult Carers within their Institution

Trainer Profile: Phil has worked at Liverpool John Moores University since 2007 in a variety of roles

including widening participation, equality and diversity and his current role in

Student Advice and Wellbeing Services, were he is responsible for the development

and delivery of support for vulnerable groups of students including Care Leavers,

Estranged Students and Young Adult Carers.

Monday 29th June 2015, Workshop 2 (16:15-17:45) Interactive Engagement with Students Trainer: Jess Hughes – Swansea University, NASMA Member Session Description: In a world awash in online communications how does money advice compete? A

website and social media presence can help us communicate with students to a certain extent, but is

a simple online profile enough? How do we turn our one-way communications into tools of interactive

engagement, whilst ensuring our message doesn’t get lost in the wave of information available

online? Engagement Theory, an emerging school of thought within virtual learning, dictates that

students learn best when they’re meaningfully engaged in their learning activities through worthwhile

communications and interactive tasks (Kearsley & Schneiderman, 1999). With this in mind is it possible

to ensure that our advice is engaging and interactive? The workshop aims to explore creative,

innovative solutions to communicating with students online. It will introduce a number of interactive

packages aimed at helping services create an online presence that values student engagement.

Aimed at: Delegates interested in discovering new ways to engage with students Trainer Profile: Jess is a Student Financial Capability Officer working within Money Advice & Support

at Swansea University. Her interests lie in creative engagement with students. As such a key part of her day to day role is centred round developing student engagement through innovative communications. Jess has worked in money advice for over a year. She is a qualified teacher, and prior to moving into student money advice has over 4 years’ experience of teaching and training within the Higher Education sector. Recently she is involved in a number of exciting new projects with a focus on interacting and connecting with students online.

Pay Day Loans Trainer: Helen Abrahams – University of Brighton, NASMA Member Session Description: The intention of this session is for NASMA members to discuss the use of pay day style loans within their student community how they are addressing this within their institution. Delegates will be invited to share their experiences of communicating with lenders and offer some suggestions of best practice. With a pay day loan plenary to follow on Tuesday morning it is hoped this will give members a chance to consider the key issues and formulate some innovative questions to put to the panel Aimed at: Any delegate interested in the impact of payday loans on students

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Trainer Profile: I come from a long and varied background in welfare benefits, having worked at

Stockport Borough Council, Bristol City Council, Mid Sussex District Council and

then for the Disability Advice Centre in Brighton.I moved to HE in April 2006 to

work at the University of Brighton and I’ve never looked back. The role of today’s

Student Adviser is very different to that of 9 years ago and we have to constantly

adapt to changing regulations and financial trends. I’m fortunate to work in a well-

established and experienced large team. I’m passionate about providing students

with accurate information so they can make informed choices about the financial

products available to them. I’m a former NASMA Board member and Money Doctor

Moving On, Money Skills for Finalists Trainers: Elaine Moore & Rebecca Ayres – The University of Warwick, NASMA Members Session Description: 2015 will see the first cohort of graduates paying the £9k fees and enter the world of work and repayments. Topics covered will include budgeting skills and saving, banking and credit, student loan repayments and credit referencing. The workshop will appeal to funding practitioners who give advice to finalists, either one to one or as a workshop and are looking for new ways to apply these key messages through a variety of media channels. Aimed at: Delegates who advise graduating students Trainer Profiles: Elaine Moore - My professional experience has been gained in the field of marketing

and PR within both the private and public sector. I am currently working

as a Senior Funding Adviser for the University of Warwick with a primary

remit to deliver funding and bursary messages as part of the University

Access Agreement.

Rebecca Ayres - I have worked within the Student Funding team at the

University of Warwick for nine years. My current role as Student Funding

Adviser involves delivering information, advice and guidance around fees and student finance to both

prospective and current students and their parents/carers.

Responding to Emergencies Trainers: Mo Onyett & Russell Townsend – University of York, NASMA Members Session Description: This workshop style session will explore strategies for assisting students in various urgent and complex situations such as eviction, a visit from bailiffs, homelessness and housemate disputes through the use of case studies and discussion. We will include examples of working with outside agencies as well as university funds and processes to provide effective support to students including those with underlying issues such as gambling or drug addiction. Aimed at: New and experienced hardship fund administrators/managers and advisers Trainer Profiles: Mo Onyett: Mo has worked in student support roles for more than 13 years. Her

current role at the University of York is very varied, she provides specialist level advice on benefits, debt and housing in addition to advising on student funding and hardship funds. Mo was a member of the NASMA Board form July 2010 to December 2014 playing a key role in the development of NASMA’s Accredited Membership scheme. Russell Townsend: Russell has worked in the University of York’s Student Financial Support Unit for more than ten years. Initially providing administrative support, he is now the senior hardship fund assessor and also administers the institution’s main undergraduate bursary schemes.

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Introduction to the Residency Team at SFE Trainers: Student Finance England (This session will be delivered by staff from the SFE Pre assessment department) Session Description: This session will look at how the residency team at SFE are now structured and how they assess applications for student support. Using trainer slides and case studies the session will look at some of the complex situations that arise, how we can assist students gather appropriate evidence and how we as practitioners can escalate and resolve matters. Please note it is not intended to cover all areas of residency eligibility. Aimed at: New and experience advisors Trainer Profiles: not yet available Student Support Calculations Trainers: Jo Gibson – Leeds Beckett University & Lynne Condell – Liverpool John Moores University, NASMA Member Session Description: Do you find yourself wondering how a student has a particular level of loan or grant? Do you want to be able to challenge decisions that you suspect are incorrect? This session will focus on student support calculations for students applying to Student Finance England for 2015-16. The session will not be too maths heavy, but please bring a calculator! Aimed at: Delegates who advise current or prospective students in relation to Student Finance Trainer Profiles: Jo is Head of Student Information & Advice at Leeds Beckett University. Prior to this,

Jo worked for NASMA for three years as Strategy & Development Manager, and served as Training Officer on the NASMA Board from 2007-2010. Prior to work with NASMA, Jo worked at the University of Reading as Student Financial Support Manager and at York St John as Welfare Adviser. Jo continues to deliver training nationally and has delivered workshops at the past nine NASMA conferences! Lynne Condell is the Student Funds Manager at the Liverpool John Moores University. She was NASMA Chair from 2008 until 2012 and still represents NASMA at a number of events and national and regional stakeholder group. In 2013 Lynne was awarded an MBE for her services to Higher Education.

Lynne Condell

Tuesday 30th June 2015, Workshop 3 (10:15-12:15) Students and Social Security Benefits Trainer: Angela Toal - CPAG, Scotland, NASMA Member Session Description: This session will explain which students can claim the main social security benefits (excluding universal credit), and look briefly at how student loans and grants affect entitlement to benefits. Aimed at: The session will be suitable for delegates with little benefits knowledge, and also for those with good knowledge who are looking for a refresher/update. Trainer Profile: Angela has been a Welfare Rights Worker with CPAG in Scotland for 10 years. She is

the author of The Benefits for Students in Scotland handbook and the Benefit

chapters of the Student Support and Benefits Handbook (England, Wales and N

Ireland).

Dealing with Debt Part 1 (Must be taken with Part 2)

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Trainer: Colette Evans – Pennysmart CIC Session Description: This will be an interactive workshop; participants will gain awareness of causes of debt; strategies to engage debtors; how to complete an Income and Expenditure sheet and why; when to seek specialist help and where from. Aimed at: Any delegate who is new to debt advice or requires an overall refresher of the debt advice protocols Trainer Profile: Colette has over 15 years’ experience in the money advice field and training, having

previously worked at Flintshire Citizens Advice Bureau before moving to

Pennysmart CIC. She is an approved Debt Relief Order Intermediary and is an

accredited member of the Institute of Money Advice. Colette delivers training to

community groups and 2nd tier organisations

Hardship Funds Trainers: James Quinn – University of Portsmouth, NASMA Vice Chair Communications & Phil Davis - Bishop Grosseteste University, NASMA Member Session Description: This session is aimed at advisers who administer a hardship fund at their university and is concerned with developing your knowledge and skills with the assessment procedures. The session aims to review the NASMA hardship fund guidance including its purpose, eligibility criteria, priority groups and the assessment process. We will also explore standard and non-standard payments and other issues you may face as an adviser. The session is also an opportunity for members to share best practices from their own institutions. Aimed at: Hardship Fund administrators across the UK Trainer Profile: Not yet available

24+ Advanced Learning Loans Trainer: Hayley Walker – SLC Session Description: This workshop will offer an insight into Further Education’s 24+ Advanced Learning Loans. Delegates will be given an overview of the key features of 24+ Advanced Learning Loans; including an outline of the policy, SLC’s role and responsibilities and our approach to engagement with learning providers. As well as general information topics will include; how the scheme is working in practice (including take up and numbers going on to higher education), the proposed expansion of loans and information about repayments with specific focus on the write off policy. Aimed at: Delegates who deal with FE students Trainer Profile: I have worked for the Student Loans Company for over 7 years and currently

responsible for supporting the development and design of 24+ Advanced Learning

Loans. This includes input into service design and delivery, being the lead in business

to business rollout of services for providers and acting as subject matter expert and

relationship manager to providers in the North of England. Previously I was an

Operations Team Manager within the Processing Unit in Darlington with specific focus

on working closely with partners to improve systems and services for higher education

students as well as students with dependants.

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Delivering Innovative Content

Trainers: Elaine Moore & Rebecca Ayres – The University of Warwick, NASMA Members Session Description: This workshop will look at ways to deliver student finance messages in a fun and interactive way to existing and prospective students, their parents & carers. Time will be spent looking at the Warwick Student Budget Calculator (www.warwick.unibudget.me) how this has been used as a basis to our financial literacy work in schools and with our current students. Please be prepared to share any of your own workshop materials, there will be an opportunity to create new workshop ideas. Aimed at: The workshop will appeal to funding practitioners who give advice to current students or who are interested in delivering funding/finance messages in a workshop setting Trainer Profiles: Elaine Moore - My professional experience has been gained in the field of marketing

and PR within both the private and public sector. I am currently working

as a Senior Funding Adviser for the University of Warwick with a primary

remit to deliver funding and bursary messages as part of the University

Access Agreement. Rebecca Ayres - I have worked within the Student

Funding team at the University of Warwick for nine years. My current role

as Student Funding Adviser involves delivering information, advice and

guidance around fees and student finance to both prospective and current students and their

parents/carers.

Introduction to Student Funding Part 1 (Must be taken with Part 2) Trainer: Tom Levin - Liverpool John Moores University, NASMA Website Co-Ordinator Session Description: This session will provide an overview of the key elements of student funding across the 4 nations including eligibility, entitlement, change of circumstances, the application process, appeals, complaints and repayments. The session also covers funding available for NHS funded courses and Socialwork. This session is a basic overview of a complex student funding system so issues cannot be covered in depth. Aimed at: New student money advisors or those wanting a basic refresher on student funding. Trainer Profile: Tom has worked at Liverpool JMU for around 6 years, working with hardship funds administration and helping student navigate the student finance system.

An Introduction to the Previous Study Rules Trainers: Jo Gibson – Leeds Beckett University & Lynne Condell – Liverpool John Moores University, NASMA Member Session Description: The session will cover the basic principles of the rules relating to previous study. Participants will gain an understanding of the relevant regulations and how to apply them to simple case studies. The session will be delivered via trainer delivery, discussion and case studies. No prior knowledge or experience is required. Aimed at: Delegates who advise current or prospective students in relation to Student Finance Trainer Profiles: Jo is Head of Student Information & Advice at Leeds Beckett University. Prior to this,

Jo worked for NASMA for three years as Strategy & Development Manager, and served as Training Officer on the NASMA Board from 2007-2010. Prior to work with NASMA, Jo worked at the University of Reading as Student Financial Support Manager and at York St John as Welfare Adviser. Jo continues to deliver training nationally and has delivered workshops at the past nine NASMA conferences! Lynne Condell is the Student Funds Manager at the Liverpool John Moores University. She was NASMA Chair from 2008 until 2012 and still represents NASMA at a number of events and national and regional stakeholder group. In 2013 Lynne was awarded an MBE for her services to Higher Education.

Lynne Condell

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Tuesday 30th June 2015, Workshop 4 (13:00-15:00)

Students and Universal Credit Trainer: Angela Toal - CPAG, Scotland, NASMA Member Session Description: Students and Universal Credit (UC) will give an overview of this new benefit, including the progress of the roll-out of UC. It will go onto explain the rules that apply to higher education students claiming UC. Aimed at: The session will be suitable for delegates with little benefits knowledge and also for those with good knowledge who are looking for a refresher/update. Trainer Profile: Angela has been a Welfare Rights Worker with CPAG in Scotland for 10 years. She is

the author of The Benefits for Students in Scotland handbook and the Benefit

chapters of the Student Support and Benefits Handbook (England, Wales and

N Ireland).

Dealing with Debt Part 2 (Must be taken with Part 1) Trainer: Colette Evans – Pennysmart CIC Session Description: This will be an interactive workshop; participants will gain awareness of causes of debt; strategies to engage debtors; how to complete an Income and Expenditure sheet and why; when to seek specialist help and where from. Aimed at: Any delegate who is new to debt advice or requires an overall refresher of the debt advice protocols Trainer Profile: Colette has over 15 years’ experience in the money advice field and training, having

previously worked at Flintshire Citizens Advice Bureau before moving to

Pennysmart CIC. She is an approved Debt Relief Order Intermediary and is an

accredited member of the Institute of Money Advice. Colette delivers training to

community groups and 2nd tier organisations

Dealing with Difficult Conversations/People Trainer: Kay Morrison – University of Leeds Session Description: NASMA is still waiting for a session description. However NASMA intends that the session will be aimed at delegates dealing with people & situations that are difficult to handle. It is intended to consider different types of behaviour which people may display and how incidents may evolve whilst exploring how to build a rapport & mediate with customers so that their needs are addressed and our own self awareness is sufficiently high to really engage with them in a safe and professional way. Aimed at: Delegates who provide advice on a 1:2:1 basis

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Trainer Profile: Not yet available

SFA Update

Trainer: David Corke - Association of Colleges Session Description: We are still awaiting a description for this session. It is intended to provide an update from the Skills Funding Agency in relation to current and future funding within FE. Aimed at: Students who advise students who are based within FE Trainer Profile:

Disability: What You Need to Know Trainer: Kate Waugh – Birmingham City University Session Description: The workshop will be a combination of information delivery and discussion activities. Those burning questions about disability that you've always wanted to ask will be most welcome! After this workshop you will feel more confident in using the right language and etiquette around disability and you will understand how to make sure the services you provide are accessible for disabled students. Aimed at: All delegates who deal with students Trainer Profile: Kate is a Disability Support Manager at Birmingham City University, where she

manages a team of 10 staff and is responsible for all aspects of support for disabled students and applicants. Kate also spends much of her time delivering training and providing consultancy for her university colleagues. Previously, Kate was with the Disability Rights Commission, one of the Commissions which merged into the Equality and Human Rights Commission. Kate managed the national helpline, which advised disabled people and their supporters, employers, service providers and educators on the Disability Discrimination Act 1995.

Introduction to Student Funding Part 2 (Must be taken with Part 1) Trainer: Tom Levin - Liverpool John Moores University, NASMA Website Co-Ordinator Session Description: Follows on from Part 1 Trainer Profile: Tom has worked at Liverpool JMU for around 6 years, working with hardship funds administration and helping student navigate the student finance system. Taking Time Out Trainers: Jo Gibson – Leeds Beckett University & Lynne Condell – Liverpool John Moores University, NASMA Member Session Description: Taking time out of studies can have a significant impact on the financial support available for students. This session is relevant for all delegates, be they managers, advisers or fund/bursary administrators. The session will draw on both trainer delivery and case studies to assist delegates in understanding the relevant legislation. Aimed at: Delegates who advise current or prospective students in relation to Student Finance

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Trainer Profiles: Jo is Head of Student Information & Advice at Leeds Beckett University. Prior to this, Jo worked for NASMA for three years as Strategy & Development Manager, and served as Training Officer on the NASMA Board from 2007-2010. Prior to work with NASMA, Jo worked at the University of Reading as Student Financial Support Manager and at York St John as Welfare Adviser. Jo continues to deliver training nationally and has delivered workshops at the past nine NASMA conferences! Lynne Condell is the Student Funds Manager at the Liverpool John Moores University. She was NASMA Chair from 2008 until 2012 and still represents NASMA at a number of events and national and regional stakeholder group. In 2013 Lynne was awarded an MBE for her services to Higher Education.

Lynne Condell

Tuesday 30th June 2015, Workshop 5 (15:30-16:30) Students and Tax Credits Trainer: Angela Toal - CPAG, Scotland, NASMA Member Session Description: Students and Tax Credits will outline when students can claim tax credits, and what issues there might be to consider. Aimed at: The session will be suitable for delegates with little knowledge of tax credits, and also for those with good knowledge who are looking for a refresher/update. Trainer Profile: Angela has been a Welfare Rights Worker with CPAG in Scotland for 10 years. She is

the author of The Benefits for Students in Scotland handbook and the Benefit

chapters of the Student Support and Benefits Handbook (England, Wales and

N Ireland).

Mental Health Awareness Trainer: Mike Jeffries, MIND Session Description: A brief overview of “Mental Health” with an emphasis on the impact on students and young people. Aimed at: All delegates who deal with students

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Trainer Profile: Mike has worked for Birmingham Mind since 2003, originally in a dual role of Service user involvement (Consultation with people who have mental health problems, about what makes Mental Health services work for them) and training of Birmingham Mind’s staff/volunteers. Since September 2014 has been solely focused on training both internal to Birmingham Mind but also an expanding area of delivering Mental Health related training/presentations in Schools/Colleges/Organisations/Businesses – wherever it’s needed! Previous work experience includes Adult Education work, Community work and Play work for a Local Authority amongst other things.

EU Applications and Funding Trainer: Mark Huntington – A Star Future Session Description: We are still awaiting a description for this session. A Star Future provide information about international higher education opportunities to British students. It is intended that this session will provide information about funding in regard to studying at universities abroad. Aimed at: Delegates who deal with prospective students Trainer Profile: Mark founded A Star Future Ltd in 2006 and in the past nine years the company has

grown considerably. His main mission is to improve access to information about international higher education in secondary schools throughout the United Kingdom. A large part of this work involves advising on the financial implications of studying abroad. The launch of the www.studyinholland.co.uk website in 2011 was instrumental in encouraging the rapid growth in British students going to Dutch universities and the recently launched www.postgradabroad.co.uk website specifically addresses the financial reality of Master’s- level education in Europe

What’s New in NAMSS Trainer: Lisa Humphries – NAMSS Session Description: NAMSS (National Association of Managers in student services) has been running for almost 30 years representing over 80% of Colleges in the UK. NAMSS provides support, advice and guidance to its members and aims to improve Student Services across the country through the sharing of good practice and also representing the members views in a variety of forums. NAMSS has seen significant developments over the last few years and this session will update attendees on what NAMSS has been doing and what is next Aimed at: All delegates who are interested in the challenges faced within the FE sector Trainer Profile: I returned to Further Education at the age of 21 after dropping out at 16. I became involved in student voice and was elected Student President, I served 3 years as President for Chichester College before completing my studies and being offered a role at the College. Since then I have held several different position before being appointed Student Experience Manager 5 years ago. I have responsibility for tutoring, student behaviour, careers advice and guidance, student finance, student voice, enrichment and induction. In March 2014 the College was graded outstanding by Ofsted with significant recognition to support services. I joined the NAMSS executive 3 years ago and have been Vice chair for Partnerships for 18 months.

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Credit Reference Reports – Credit Where it’s Due Trainer: Joe Green, Experian Session Description: Our consumer focus on demystifying credit scoring:

Myths and Facts

Our consumer engagement channels

Our priority of consumer education to help students and young people Aimed at: All delegates who deal with students Trainer Profile: Joe Green is Experian’s Consumer Affairs Executive and helps deliver the Company’s

public education programme which explains, for example, how credit reports and credit ratings work. Originally from Kent, Joe moved to Nottingham in 2005 to study Business at Nottingham Trent University and joined Experian shortly after graduating. Joe has a keen interest in music, film, travel and sport, particularly long distance running. In 2014 Joe completed his first full marathon, raising money for a number of charities.

Postgraduate Funding

Trainer: Kevin Ward – Middlesex University, NASMA Member Session Description: An outline on the various ways postgraduates fund their studies including PCDL’S, scholarships and bursaries and other funding options, touching on the new Post Graduate Support Scholarship and Government PG Loans Aimed at: Delegates who advise prospective postgraduate students Trainer Profile: Kevin started off life as a Contracting Electrical Technician moving over to the

maintenance side in the print industry. Briefly Worked in Domiciliary care for Social Services as Home Care Administrator. Then in 1994 moved into Advice work for (my) Local Authority, voluntary organisations, and CAB, with the last 8 years at Middlesex University. Outreach work: Over the past year Re-establishing and Chairing the Customer Representative Groups Forum (North and North East London District Benefit Centre (DBC) Areas) with support from DWP ‘Partnership’ Support Managers. Co-ordinated a Care Leavers Awareness event at the University with A Local JCP Relationship Manager involving 5 local authorities…And in my spare time … a Rugby League Coach for London Skolar’s

Juniors under 13’s.

Appeals & Complaints Trainers: Jo Gibson – Leeds Beckett University & Lynne Condell – Liverpool John Moores University, NASMA Member Session Description: The session will provide delegates with an overview into the formal appeals and complaints processes used by SFE/SFW including the various stages and expected timescales taken. This will be delivered from a practitioner prospective via trainer delivery, discussions and case studies. Delegates will hopefully find the session informative, regardless of knowledge or experience, and be able to use this when advising students on these processes. Aimed at: Delegates who advise current or prospective students in relation to Student Finance

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Trainer Profiles: Jo is Head of Student Information & Advice at Leeds Beckett University. Prior to this, Jo worked for NASMA for three years as Strategy & Development Manager, and served as Training Officer on the NASMA Board from 2007-2010. Prior to work with NASMA, Jo worked at the University of Reading as Student Financial Support Manager and at York St John as Welfare Adviser. Jo continues to deliver training nationally and has delivered workshops at the past nine NASMA conferences! Lynne Condell is the Student Funds Manager at the Liverpool John Moores University. She was NASMA Chair from 2008 until 2012 and still represents NASMA at a number of events and national and regional stakeholder group. In 2013 Lynne was awarded an MBE for her services to Higher Education.

Lynne Condell

Wednesday 1st July 2015, Workshop 6 (10:30-12:30)

Disability Benefits Part 1 (Must be taken with Part 2) Trainer: Debbie Witton Session Description: This workshop will provide a clear and practical approach to:

Identifying students who can qualify for contributory and income-related ESA

Understanding the assessment process

How ESA links to other benefits

Time out for ill-health

Mandatory reconsiderations and appeal process

Aimed at: Delegates interested in the benefits available for students with disabilities/Mental Health issues Trainer Profile: Debbie is a welfare rights expert who has worked in the field since 1990 as a case

worker, mental health specialist and trainer. For 8 years she worked in partnership with Skill delivering disability benefits training and for 10years contributed to the Disability Rights Handbook. A qualified adult education teacher, Debbie is able to communicate complex legislation through training that is practical, relevant and fun. Debbie is currently a freelance trainer for Shelter and a senior welfare rights officer for Salford welfare rights service.

Introduction to StepChange Debt Charity and Debt Trainer: Zoe Barlow - StepChange Debt Charity Session Description: To increase your understanding of StepChange Debt Charity and the support the charity offers. Objectives: Demonstrate a basic understanding of the cause and effects of debt. Compile a comprehensive, sustainable budget. Understand the various debt solutions. Identify who to refer to StepChange Debt Charity and how to do this. Aimed at: Delegates who need to signpost students to other debt advice providers

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Trainer Profile: Zoe has worked at StepChange Debt Charity for 10 years. She is an experienced debt advisor, holding the Diploma in Money and Debt Advice issued by the Institute of Credit Management with the year’s highest grade. Zoe worked for several years as a trainer within the charity, delivering and writing courses internally and externally to a wide variety of partners. She completed her training certificate from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development at distinction level. Zoe now works in business development for the charity as a Business Development officer, managing the large portfolio of partners the charity works with.

Students and Gambling Trainer: Elaine Smethurst - Gordon Moody Association Session Description: Gambling is a leisure pursuit enjoyed by millions of adults but what happens when things get out of control? This session will focus on problem gambling, the potential risks to students and the research available about gambling and young people, the impact it can have on individuals, their families and society, the resources available to help someone in trouble and how to identify some of the warning signs. The workshop will offer the chance to share experiences and knowledge of this emerging issue. Aimed at: Delegates who support vulnerable students, particularly those who highlight gambling issues via hardship fund applications Trainer Profile: Elaine Smethurst is Managing Director of Gordon Moody Association, the only charity

in the UK which is dedicated to providing residential treatment for severely

addicted problem gamblers. We also offer online support for problem gamblers

based outside Great Britain. Residential services information is available on

www.gordonmoody.org.uk and our online support is provided via

www.gamblingtherapy.org

Estrangement (Safely Supporting Estranged Students) Trainer: Becca Bland - Stand Alone Session Description: This presentation will explore how to safely support estranged students, offering insight into our recent research regarding the profiles and key vulnerabilities of young people studying without a family network. During this session, you will be invited to input your experiences of supporting these students, and brainstorm some of the key personal challenges that money advisors may face when helping students. The material in this presentation will give you key ideas in how to manage boundaries and expectations with estranged students, and also an understanding of tools to encourage student engagement and self-sufficiency. Aimed at: Delegates who support vulnerable students Trainer Profile: Becca Bland is the founding Chief Executive of Stand Alone Charity, the first national

organisation to help adults that have become estranged from their family or key family member. She moved into this area of work by talking about her own estrangement in the national media, and has since opened out the dialogue around family estrangement into the public sphere. Stand Alone has grown into a key organisation advocating for vulnerable young adults and particularly estranged students, who often face difficulties in proving their family dysfunction and accessing education.

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MALG and the Debt and Mental Health Evidence Form Trainer: Anthony Sharpe - MALG Session Description: The workshop will help delegates understand what MALG is all about, what work in the debt and mental health arena MALG has been involved in over the last 12 years including the recent launch of the MALG Good Practice Guidelines for Helping Consumers with Mental Health Conditions and Debt and then leading onto an understanding of the Debt and Mental Health Evidence Form; how it works and how it can be of considerable use to NASMA advisers in their work with their clients. Aimed at: Delegates who deal with debt advice Trainer Profile: Anthony Sharp runs his own consultancy business - Anthony Sharp Associates. The

company formed in 1999 specialises in training, compliance issues, liaison

consultancy and general administration consultancy in the consumer credit

marketplace. Anthony appears regularly as a lecturer and conference chair.

Commercial experience includes eight years with Bentalls Plc where he

progressed to Group Credit Manager, followed by five years as Group Credit

Control Manager for Asprey Plc. He joined the Consumer Credit Trade

Association in 1986 as Deputy Director, where he created and ran a successful Training Operation for

some 13 years. . Anthony is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Credit Management. He was Project

Manager (2000-2007) as well as examiner and tutor for the Credit Services Association Diploma

Course, accredited by City & Guilds, from 1998-2009.He was co- chair of the Credit Today Awards for

five years from its inception in 2000 until 2005. Anthony was awarded the prestigious award

“Contribution to the Credit Industry” at the Credit Today Awards Ceremony in May 2006. He is

Chairman of the Central Region of the Civil Court Users Association and a member of their Council. He

is also Chair (and co-founder 1987) of the Money Advice Liaison Group. (MALG is a discussion forum

for promoting better understanding and professionalism between the debt advice sector and the

creditor sector of the industry). He has been a member of the Enforcement Law Review Group

(formerly The Enforcement Law Reform Group) since its inception in 1999. In 2013 he was appointed

as member of both The Insolvency Service’s Debt Management Protocol Approvals Committee and

The Debt Resolution Forum’s Complaints & Disciplinary Committee

DSA Trainer: Paddy Turner, NADP Session Description: An up-to-date briefing on the latest developments and potential future developments regarding the changes to Disabled Students' Allowances (DSAs) first proposed by David Willetts in April 2014. A discussion of the broad implications for students and HEIs and more particularly the specific implications for money advisers. Where do the legal responsibilities lie? What is the interface between DSAs and the Equality Act (2010) duties with regard to disabled student support? How will students with SpLDs be affected? Who will be responsible for paying the £200 computer contribution? With Q&A throughout, there will also be an opportunity to work in groups and share responses and practices currently under discussion within delegates own HEIs. Aimed at: Delegates who deal with DSA or are interested in the current proposed changes Trainer Profile: Paddy began working as a disability practitioner at Sheffield Hallam University in

1998 and before that in FE and schools. He has worked in every kind of role within the sphere of disabled student support, as a support worker, as a trainer of support workers, as a DSA assessor, as a co-ordinator of NMH services and as a senior manager. Since 2011, Paddy has worked as an academic developing inclusive teaching and learning practices. Paddy was on the original working group that set up NADP (NADO as it was then) in 1999/2000, and was then successfully

elected as a Director in 2005, Vice Chair in 2010 and has been NADP Chair since the end of 2012. He

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represents NADP in both BIS and SLC-led stakeholder and policy forums and liaises regularly with a range of sector organisations both HE and disability-specific. Overall, this gives him a fairly unique understanding of, and perspective on, the HE disability support field at every level and through operational, strategic and policy lenses.

NHS Student Bursaries and Social Work Bursaries funding overview Trainers: Louisa Ruman and Michelle Bateman Session Description: Funding overview - NHS Student Bursaries, Social Work Bursaries and Education Support Grant. Eligibility Criteria. Means Testing/Case Studies. Additional Allowances Aimed at: Delegates who advise NHS students in England Trainer Profiles: Louisa is Student Services manager with over 17 years’ experience in NHS Student

funding and more recently Social Work Bursaries and

the Education Support Grant. Undertaken a number of

roles including managing the Operations Team, Policy

Implementation, Business Improvement and Audit.

Appointed to my current role In September 2014,

where one of main focuses is driving stakeholder engagement. We host two national stakeholder

events per year and are introducing Special Interest Groups across the country. Main focus is to

continue driving Service Improvements, improving the quality of service we provide and exceeding

customer and client expectations. Michelle started working for Student Services in July 2002 as a

bursary processor. She became a Team Manager in 2005/6 and more recently Operations Manager in

2014.

Wednesday 1st July 2015, Workshop 7 (13:15-14:30) Disability Benefits Part 2 (Must be taken with Part 1) Trainer: Debbie Witton Session Description: This workshop will bring you up to date with Personal Independence payment (PIP) and how it is replacing Disability Living Allowance (DLA) Full of practical tips and tactics we will focus on how you can support disabled students affected by the change. The workshop covers

When and how students who already get DLA will be re-assessed for PIP

How to make a new claim for PIP

The new assessment of daily living and mobility activities – how to score points

How to keep up to date and access useful PIP resources Aimed at: Delegates interested in the benefits available for students with disabilities/Mental Health issues Trainer Profile:

Debbie is a welfare rights expert who has worked in the field since 1990 as a case worker, mental health specialist and trainer. For 8 years she worked in partnership with Skill delivering disability benefits training and for 10years contributed to the Disability Rights Handbook. A qualified adult education teacher, Debbie is able to communicate complex legislation through training that is practical, relevant and fun. Debbie is currently a freelance trainer for Shelter and a senior welfare rights officer for Salford welfare rights service.

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Fitness to Study Regulations Trainer: Alex Morgan – Newcastle SU, NASMA Vice Chair – Governance & Operations Session Description: As very little Academic training is available in the sector this session will exploring issues surrounding Fitness to Study regulations including; Gaining a better understanding of how and when Fitness to Study regulations can be used, guiding and supporting students through the process, student perceptions of what is meant to be a supportive process, and the potential financial impact on Students. Aimed at: Delegates, particular those based in Student Unions who support students through the fitness to study process Trainer Profile: Not yet available Consumer Protection Law in HE (Cancelled) Trainer: TBC - Oscar Plumber – CMA Session Description: This session looks as the draft advice for Higher Education providers and what their obligations to students are under consumer protection law and how this will impact on Advice Provision in the HE sector, including how to raise students’ awareness of their rights under consumer law. Aimed at: Delegates interested in the implications of the new consumer protection legislation Trainer Profile: Not yet provided

Funding for Placement Years Trainer: David Malcolm – NUS & NASMA Member Session Description: This workshop session will look at the funding for placements other than those on professional courses such as nursing or social work. It will also give delegates the chance to discuss their own expertise and exchange good practice and information Aimed at: Delegates who advise current or prospective students in relation to Student Finance Speaker Profile: David is Assistant Director at the National Union of Students, where he has worked

on student finance policy since 2003. He is a co-author of the Student Support and Benefits Handbook, published by CPAG

NSMW 2016 Trainer: Hannah Bundy – Cardiff University, NASMA Vice-Chair Finance Session Description: Reviews of NSMW15 are underway and planning for NSMW16 has already begun. Following the NSMW15 feedback survey that will have gone out to all members, this session will use the results as a basis to discuss plans for NSMW 2016. The session will provide any members with an interest in financial capability the opportunity to help shape NASMA’s largest campaign while also discussing best practice and how to engage with students. Aimed at: Delegates interested in financial capability Speaker Profile: Hannah is a Student Adviser at Cardiff University and is currently Vice Chair Finance.

Hannah has worked in student finance for over 10 years and has been involved with the Financial Capability and Research Working Group, now responsible for NSMW, since its original inception in 2010. Hannah now chairs this working group.

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Gaining Insights into Student Services Trainer: Helen McNeely – Queen’s University Belfast and AMOSSHE Member Session Description: This session gives you an overview of the broad (and broadening) context of Student Services in UK higher education. AMOSSHE, The Student Services Organisation, informs and supports the leaders of Student Services in the UK, and represents, advocates for and promotes the student experience worldwide. This presentation explores AMOSSHE's recent work to understand the scale, scope, challenges and opportunities of Student Services. This work includes Student Services-led research projects, policy discussions, and the UK's only national survey that examines the remit and resources of Student Services in higher education. The presentation also touches on some of the key critical issues that our membership has encountered this year that have impacted the student experience. Aimed at: Delegates interested in research conducted across HE, particularly managers Trainer Profile: Helen McNeely has worked in student services roles for twenty years. Starting her

career at a private law college, Helen has worked in student support at Goldsmiths College, King’s

College London, and for the last seven years, as Head of Student Affairs at Queen’s University, Belfast.

Currently Helen has responsibility for Disability Services, Counselling Services, the management of

students at risk, supporting students under the age of 18, International Student Support, PBS

Compliance and Student Well Being. In addition she is Acting Head of Academic Affairs which includes

managing student appeals and complaints and all academic quality assurance functions of the

institution. Helen has been a member of AMOSSHE for most of her career and is a member of the

executive committee which oversees the functions of the organisation.

Cultural Issues: Money and Communication Trainer: Ash Charlton, ACE Training Session Description: Students come from many different backgrounds, and what might look like a kind and reassuring manner to one culture can come across quite another way to another – for example British people are often reassured by eye contact, whereas many other cultures find it intimidating. In this session we will look at cultural differences in communication, and in attitudes to money: where the sensitive issues may be, and how to deliver a good service to all students. Aimed at: Any delegate who deals with students Trainer Profile: Ash Charlton is a qualified therapist and trainer, who has been active in advice work

(including money advice) for over twenty years. His speciality is the

psychological/emotional impact of advice work, and empowerment of

clients. In his work with Shelter and the UN he was worked with clients

from a huge variety of backgrounds, and has written numerous

publications, including the book ‘How to be Fabulously Happy – Most of

the Time!’