MRBA Launches 'Special Skills Lockdown Bursaries'

UK industry charity the Market Research Benevolent Association (MRBA) is offering 'Special Skills Lockdown Bursaries' to candidates who might struggle with the costs of taking the online MRS Advanced Certificate in Market and Social Research.

The MRBA is funded by donations from across the market research sector, and since 1977 has provided financial support and advice to UK-based workers and former workers in any aspect of market research. Last month, the charity issued a statement reminding employers that it is here to help during the Covid-19 crisis, including in cases where the industry's casual workers get into severe financial hardship due to the impact of the virus.

It is now offering bursaries to those wanting to study for the MRS course through the charity's partnership with the Research Academy, The Market Research Study Centre and London Marketing Set. According to the MRBA, this opportunity will appeal to researchers who have been furloughed or made redundant, so they can use any 'free time' to improve their career prospects in the UK market research sector; or to those who may still be working-full time to complete the qualification, at a slower pace over a longer period.

Mia Lorenz, MD of the Research Academy says that in a climate where there's little scope for employers to invest in staff training, MRBA Skills bursaries allow researchers to invest their time in gaining a professional qualification. Virginia Monk, who is MD of London-based agency Motif and an MRBA Skills Committee member, adds: 'Money is tight right now and training and skills development will be one of the last things research colleagues may be thinking about. These special bursaries will provide that financial support, so applicants can hone their skills for a future career in research'.

Bursary applications are being received until 31st May, and the course begins on 13th June for the December 2020 assessment period. The criteria are the same as for other MRBA Skills bursaries, and information can be found on the MRBA web site at www.mrba.org.uk/skills .