On Tuesday 27th November, The Open University will be participating in The Big Give’s Christmas Challenge, aiming to raise £10,000 for the Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund.
Thanks to The Big Give charitable initiative, donations made from Tuesday 27thNovember until midday on Tuesday 4thDecember, will be matched by philanthropists looking to support worthy causes, meaning that donations will be worth double the amount to disabled veterans for one week only, at no extra cost to the donor.
The Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund
The Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund is unique to the OU and offers free education to veterans with a physical or mental disability sustained during service. An injury in the line of duty abruptly robs servicemen and women of not only their career, but their way of life and potentially their future. Your support will give these veterans the chance to unlock their full potential and build a new career.
The Fund has now provided 54 scholarships and aims to provide 46 more in 2019. We have been able to exceed the original target of 50 scholarships thanks to the generosity of our donors. The OU is renowned for its support for students with disabilities, with 1 in 8 students studying with us having declared some form of disability. With over 1,600 students who are currently serving in the Forces, we know the rigours and demands on these individuals well.
A disabled veteran who received a scholarship from the DVSF in 2018/19 said, "I really do appreciate this opportunity by the OU. To have the ability to study is really intrinsic to my recovery. This gives me a focus and purpose each day with a gain towards employment I enjoy.'
For more information on how you can help transform a disabled veteran’s life go here.