Don't let money matters put you off learning! New skills will benefit you in the long run because updating your skills means a wider choice of jobs and the potential to increase your earnings.

We have listed a range of websites below, with information on financial assistance, the student funding system and even help for students with childcare costs.

Aimhigher has a handy section on student finance including a cost of living calculator to help you to work out a budget.

Directgov have a comprehensive section on student finances containing information on areas such as how to apply for grants to advice for EU students. They also have advice for adult learners on grants, bursaries and loans.

learndirect's funding section contains information for all types of courses including, further education courses, higher education, postgraduate courses, government-funded training and studying on benefits.

In addition, the National Union of Students represents the interests of around five million students in further and higher education throughout the UK, so check out their money advice pages.

The government and the Open University fund a range of financial support services, from help with paying course fees and study expenses, to help for students with disabilities and specific learning difficulties.

If you live in Scotland, Funding for Learners contains useful information. You can also get advice from the Students Awards Agency for Scotland.

For those in Northern Ireland, Student Finance Northern Ireland will provide you with information on your funding options.

Students in Wales, you can check the Welsh Assembly Government for up-to-date information.

Surestart can help learners with families who want to find out about financial assistance.

Surestart's Learner Support Scheme has information on help with childcare costs and early years education entitlements as well as the child tax credit scheme.

Directgov has a useful page which lists sources of financial help for parents, as well as information on extra help for students with children or other dependants and Learner Support Funds.

Care to Learn offers financial help with childcare for learners under 20.

Directgov have a section on training and workplace learning which may help you figure out how to get the training you need and work at same time.

The benefits system provides financial assistance through tax credits, social security benefits and council tax benefits. Tax credits are a form of benefit available to those on a low income, or who have a family. They are usually paid directly to you, or sometimes through your employer if you are paid through Pay As You Earn.

For more information, have a look at the HM Revenue and Customs website.