Since the delegation of the Adult Education Budget to the Mayor of London in 2019, the Greater London Authority has used its powers to introduce flexibilities to make the AEB more accessible to migrant communities. This research, commissioned by the GLA, explored the impact of these changes, and the barriers to learning faced by migrant communities.

Our research finds that the changes made to AEB rules have had a positive impact on migrant communities.

• More people in migrant communities are able to access learning. For example, the removal of the three-year residency requirement for family members of eligible UK nationals has extended eligibility to people who were previously excluded.
• Simplified delivery. Expanding funding eligibility makes it more likely that prospective learners will be eligible for funding. In turn, this makes it simpler and less risky for providers to plan and establish new provision.
• Better communication. A simpler system makes it easier for providers to communicate entitlements to learners.

Despite these positive impacts, providers and stakeholders cited a number of ongoing challenges. We recommend that the Greater London Authority consider further changes to support migrant communities’ access to learning, including through funding, advice and guidance, and capacity-building.