What’s happened 

The government has announced that eligible healthcare students in England will be able to receive advance payments for travel and accommodation costs associated with clinical placements from the start of the 2026/27 academic year.

Student podiatrists in England with full access to the NHS Learning Support Fund will be among thousands of future healthcare professionals eligible for the scheme.

Currently, students must book and pay for eligible travel and accommodation themselves before submitting a claim and being reimbursed. These costs can run into hundreds of pounds. 

Under the new system, students will receive an upfront “float” to help cover costs before they arise. They will continue to submit claims as normal, with approved claims deducted automatically from the balance.  

If the balance of the float falls below £50, students will be able to request a top-up. 

Any outstanding balance at the end will be deducted from the student's final training grant instalment. 

The government says the change could make it easier for students to undertake placements away from home, including in rural and coastal communities where costs can be particularly high. 

Why this matters to members 

Clinical placements are an essential part of podiatry education, but travel and accommodation can leave students having to meet significant costs before they are reimbursed. 

Receiving eligible expenses upfront could make it easier for students to undertake placements further from home, including in rural and coastal communities, without having to find the money themselves first. 

The change applies to students with full access to the NHS Learning Support Fund studying eligible pre-registration undergraduate or postgraduate courses, including podiatry. 

The government says the measure forms part of its commitment in the 10 Year Health Plan for England to reduce financial barriers to healthcare training and support the future NHS workforce. 

Links and references 

Department of Health and Social Care: Cash boost for healthcare students to slash upfront placement costs 

Update, 10 September 2026: This article has been updated to clarify that the new advance payment arrangements apply to eligible students in England. They do not apply to students in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.