Well although I haven't done the 'Mature Student' thing, I've actually studied with the Open University part time, instead of going to Uni full time.
Due to low earnings (first job starting wage...), I've managed to get most of it paid for by their financial support.
Have a look here, worth seeing if you might be entitled to it:
http://www3.open.ac.uk/studyatou/app...-support.shtml