Got a new client whose 16 year old son has won a scholarship to a school in London. He will be going home week-ends. Mum retains entitlement to child benefit, but can't afford his Housing costs. Can he claim HB? Gut feeling is no, but can't think of anything else.

What are the terms of scholarship - is there any housing costs/bursary he can claim as part of the scholarship whilst living away from home ! there must be surely ! otherwise its pointless ?

No - no accommodation costs. Just scholarship which is not yet awarded, but max £1400 per term. Assuming mum can still claim CTC, which he could have to cover living costs, still leaves £62 per week shortfall if all scholarship put towards rent. I think most of it will go to tuition fees however.