Published: June 3, 2026 • 10:05 PM IST · Updated: June 4, 2026 • 12:31 AM ISTBy TheBriefWire Editorial Team
Key points
Jamie Evans’ letter on childcare eligibility and the “nerd tax” (28 May) strongly resonated with me because I have experienced versions of this problem throughout higher education.
In 2020, I was a single parent studying for a clinical master’s degree.
I spent over 40 hours a week on compulsory NHS placements while completing academic work.
During that time, I received universal credit, including the childcare element, which enabled me to continue my studies.
But halfway through my degree I was informed that, because I was not technically earning while undertaking placements, I had never been eligible for childcare support and had to repay close to £10,000. I challenged the decision in court, but despite the Department for Work and Pensions having originally assessed me as eligible, I was still legally required to repay the money because I did not meet the criteria.