SWL Music Charging and Remission Policy

Purpose

This policy outlines the principles for charging and the remission (waiving or reduction) of fees. It aims to ensure transparency, fairness, and access to services while balancing financial sustainability.

Background

SWL Music is the Hub Lead Organisation for Southwest London and an established partnership of seven outstanding Lead Delivery Partners (LDP) in Southwest London: Croydon Music & Arts, Hounslow Music Service, Kingston Music Service, Merton Music Foundation, Richmond Music Trust, Sutton Music Trust, and Wandsworth Music.

SWL Music has assessed the operational needs and strategic objectives of the seven LDPs and determined that charges and remissions should be determined locally in response to organisational need and local context in each area.

SWL Music and the seven LDPs are committed to ensuring an equitable distribution of resources, and to prioritising support for learners from disadvantaged backgrounds and underrepresented groups.

Scope

This policy applies to all charges levied for services, programmes, and activities offered by the LDPs, and outlines the circumstances in which remission may be applied.

Charging Policy

The LDPs may apply charges for the following:

·         Services and Programmes: Fees for participation in lessons, courses, programmes, or activities.

·         Instruments, Equipment and Resources: Charges for the use of instruments, equipment, materials, or other resources.

·         Events and Workshops: Costs associated with participation in events, workshops, concerts or special programmes.

·         External Examinations or Certifications: Fees related to exams, certifications, or other assessments.

·         Travel and Accommodation: Any applicable fees related to external activities that require travel or accommodation (e.g. tours or holiday courses).

Charges will be set at a level that reflects the cost of delivering the service while considering affordability and accessibility. All fees will be communicated clearly in advance.

Charges will be determined locally in response to organisational need and local context in each area.

Remission Policy

The LDPs may grant fee remissions in the following cases:

·         Financial Hardship: Individuals or families facing financial difficulties may be eligible for full or partial remission. Eligibility may be based on income level, unemployment, or receipt of government assistance for example Free School Meals or Universal Credit.

·         Special Circumstances: Individuals affected by exceptional circumstances (e.g. medical conditions, family emergencies), may be eligible for reduced fees or a waiver.

·         Scholarships or Grants: Remission may also be provided through scholarships, bursaries, or grants designed to support individuals based on merit or need.

Remission requests must be submitted with supporting documentation and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the LDPs.

Remissions will be determined locally in response to organisational need and local context in each area.

Looked After Children

In line with financial regulations, Looked After Children will not be directly charged.

Review Process

This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant and equitable. Any changes will be communicated to all stakeholders in advance of implementation.