The Gray’s Inn Education Committee Hardship Fund supports students and pupil barristers who are experiencing short-term financial hardship due to unforeseen circumstances, which could jeopardise their completion of the Bar Course or Pupillage.
The Education Committee Hardship Fund is not a long-term solution to a shortfall in funding or income.
Applicants are to provide a very clear description of the unforeseen circumstances which have led to the application, the precise amount requested, and how the funding would be used.
The Education Committee Hardship Group fully understand the emotional impact of debt and the individual’s ability to perform academically or professionally as a result – However, applicants are requested to focus only on the reasons for hardship and how the requested funds will enable completion of the Bar Course or Pupillage.
To inform their decision, the members of the Education Committee Hardship Group will also require a current curriculum vitae and detailed financial information relating to income, expenditure and assets. In making their decision, the Education Committee Hardship Group will amongst other factors consider:
- The applicant’s ability to leverage funds held in savings, investments and equity held in property.
- The likelihood that financial assistance provided by the Education Committee Hardship Fund will enable the applicant to successfully complete their current stage of Bar training.
- The applicant’s eligibility to qualify for funding from other sources.
Applicants should request an application form by contacting Member Services.