Carers Support Grant
The Carer Support Grant helps members overcome barriers to participation by providing financial support for childcare or dependent care while attending scientific meetings, conferences, or training events relevant to applied microbiology. This grant reduces the challenges faced by members with caregiving responsibilities, enabling them to take part fully in AMI activities and professional development opportunities.
AMI welcomes applications from members at all career stages and sectors, including those in clinical or industry roles, who are developing their professional practice in applied microbiology.
Eligibility
- Open to current AMI Full, Fellow or Associate members with a minimum of 13 months continuous active membership, wishing to attend meetings relevant to AMI's strategic direction.
- Active participation in the event is required (e.g. poster/oral presentation or event panellist).
Grant Details and Financial Support
- Up to £60 per day for dependent care (maximum £300).
- In most cases Carers Support Grant payments are paid directly to care providers.
- Designed to assist members with children, or those who care for dependent adults, in attending scientific meetings.
- Can be used in conjunction with selected other grants.
Application Requirements
- Applicants must complete an application form, providing details about the meeting and the required care support.
- Applications should be accompanied by a quotation from the proposed care provider.
- Members should apply at least six weeks prior to the start of the event.
Criteria
- Priority given to applicants demonstrating the greatest need for support in balancing home responsibilities with professional development opportunities.
Budgeting and Justification
- Justification for the requested support should explain the necessity of care expenses in relation to attending the meeting.
Post-Event Requirements
- Successful applicants are required to submit expense claims with legitimate receipts and proof of event attendance.
- Claim forms and documentation must be submitted within six weeks post-event.
Application Process
- Applications are assessed on a monthly basis. Those submitted by the final day of the month will receive a decision within four weeks (for example, applications received by 31 January will be reviewed, with outcomes available from 28 February).
The application window is currently closed for this grant. It will reopen in January 2026.