Not in parental accommodation (NIPA)
What barriers does a NIPA face?
A NIPA is a young person who is not in parental accommodation. This could mean you are living with other family members, with a partner or in independent or supported accommodation.
What barriers do people with poor mental health face?
Financial
As a NIPA, you could have financial difficulty. You may be eligible for a student bursary during your time here at college, including free meals and help with transport. Your support coach can help you look at what support is available to you.
Emotional
Due to your circumstances, we can provide support with your emotional wellbeing. Your support coach can offer you this support on a one-to-one basis and be the main point of contact for you if you are experiencing difficulties.
Instability outside of college
Depending on your circumstances, your support coach can be the link between yourself and any external agencies involved such as Framework, social care etc. We can also be the link between yourself and curriculum if needed.
Case study
“When I applied for college, I was really worried about going to such a big campus. I put that I was not living with my mum on my application form and a couple of weeks later the support coach called me and was offering me support. I was amazed. I didn’t even know people were there at college who can help me with my situation.
“I went into college to meet him and I explained my situation. He was really understanding and gave me lots of information on how college will support me. I hadn’t even begun my course.
“I’m now feeling a lot more confident after being given a tour and knowing there is someone at college that I can go to if I need any help with finance or my situation at home. I’m really looking forward to going in September now!”
Top five tips
- 1Connect
Connect with the people around you: family, friends etc. You’re stronger with a network of people around you.
- 2Be active
Keep yourself active and take part in activities. This doesn’t mean go to the gym, it could be taking a walk or on a bike ride.
- 3Keep learning
Your education is important. Learning new skills and gaining a qualification is something to be proud of.
- 4Be kind
Even the smallest of acts can count; something as simple as smiling at others. Acts of kindness can improve your mental wellbeing. You could even do something big, such as volunteering.
- 5Be mindful
Being aware of yourself and your thoughts, feelings and mind can change the way you feel about life and how you approach situations.
Useful links