DisCouRSE Travel Bursary Policy

This policy sets out what travel and accommodation expenses may be claimed by individuals awarded a travel bursary to attend DisCouRSE events. Details of how to apply will be included in the relevant event page. If you have any questions, please do contact us.

1. Assessment of Bursary Applications

Applications are assessed against the following criteria:

• Demonstrated professional development benefit of attending the event
• Eligibility against the bursary criteria for the event
• Claims must comply with this policy. Exceptional cases that sit just outside of this policy will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

2. Non-Claimable Travel

The following cannot be claimed:

• Travel between home and a Claimant’s normal place of work
• Business travel broadly similar to the Claimant’s normal commute

3. Transport

• Train travel is preferred where practical.
• Standard/economy class travel only.
• Taxis or alternative transport may be claimed where public transport is impractical.

4. Accommodation

• Hotel stays may be claimed from the night before the event where same-day travel is impractical.
• In exceptional cases, a hotel stay for the evening of the final day may be required when an event ends late. This must be requested and approved in advance.
• As per HMRC rules, accommodation at or near a Claimant’s normal place of work is not claimable unless exceptional approval is granted.

Hotel cost limits (room only, per night):

• London: up to £190 including VAT
• Outside London: up to £130 including VAT

5. Claims

• Claims must be reasonable, supported by receipts, and submitted within one month.
• A visitor claims link will be sent to be completed.
• Once approved the money will be transferred within 10 working days.