What is Learner Support Fund (LSF)?

Learner Support Fund (LSF) provides financial support to eligible apprentices to help remove barriers that could impact their ability to engage fully in their apprenticeship. LSF is not a loan and does not need to be repaid. It exists to ensure apprentices can access the practical support they need to succeed in training and in the workplace.

How Onyx Support Helps

Onyx Support delivers LSF-funded support for apprentices. Our role is to ensure support is:

Person-centred
Flexible
Delivered by qualified, experienced professionals
Tailored to your individual circumstances and changing needs

We work with apprentices and training providers across the UK to help identify support needs, access appropriate funding, and put the right support in place quickly and effectively.

Who is LSF Support For?

Learner Support Fund (LSF) is for eligible learners and apprentices who may need financial support to help them stay engaged with their education or training.

LSF is typically available to learners who are:

Aged 19 or over (or 16–18 in specific circumstances)
Studying on a further education course or apprenticeship

What Does DSA Support Cover?

One-to-One Learning Support

Study skills, organisation, time management, assignment planning, building independence.

Mental Health Support

Practical strategies to manage the impact of mental health on learning, routines, confidence, coping tools.

Specialist Neurodiversity & SpLD Support

Targeted support for ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, etc. Focus, processing, memory and executive function strategies.

Apprenticeship & Workplace Support

Support to balance work and training, communication strategies, managing workload and expectations.

Assistive Skills & Technology Support

Help using tools/software and study systems that improve access, efficiency and independence.

How the LSF Process Works

1. Apply

If you’re struggling to keep up with your apprenticeship (for example with organisation, workload, focus, communication, or wellbeing), tell your training provider that you think you need additional support.

2. Eligibility

Your training provider will check whether LSF can be used and what information they need from you (this could include a short form, proof of circumstances, or learning/training costs).

3. Needs Assessment

Your provider (or their appointed assessment service/partner) will complete an assessment or review of support needs and confirm what support can be funded and put in place.

4. Arrange Your Support

Once approved, if you’re referred to Onyx Support as the NMH provider, we match you with a qualified professional and deliver the agreed support, reviewing it as your needs change.

In-Person Support

Online (Video Call) Support

Blended Approach

We’ll always work with you to find a format that feels comfortable, accessible and effective.

How Support Is Delivered

Received a LSF Funding Letter with Onyx Support Listed?

If your funding letter recommends support, or if you have questions about DSA, get in touch with us:

Email: admin@onyxstudents.com
Telephone: 01604 713103
Online: Complete the form on "Arrange my DSA Support" page

We’re here to support you every step of the way.