Thanks to the incredible generosity of our OU family, over 105 disabled veterans have now received an OU scholarship to help them transform their lives through learning.
The Disabled Veterans Scholarships’ Fund (DVSF) offers a lifeline to those injured in or due to service as they transition to civilian life. At the end of last year, the OU launched a 6-week appeal to raise funds needed to support more disabled veterans throughout 2020.
Whether you responded to our letter, took part in The Big Give Christmas challenge or donated in any other way, please accept our sincerest thanks. You helped to raise more than an incredible £170,000 in just six weeks. That means at least six disabled veterans will now have access to free OU education and wraparound disability and careers support to help them succeed in their new journeys. We cannot thank you enough.
So far, the OU family has come together to raise over £2.6 million for the Disabled Veterans Scholarships Fund. This is a remarkable achievement and we are committed to supporting as many disabled veterans as possible in the years to come. We aim to welcome another 50 students in 2020 and thank you, as always, for your continued support in making such a positive impact to so many lives.
Changing lives one scholarship at a time
After joining the Army at just 16 years old, Daniel Bingley was flying high in a military career when a terrible injury turned his world upside down. After being medically discharged he describes feeling as if he had ‘lost it all’.
He is now studying through the Disabled Veterans Scholarships’ Fund and hopes to begin working in the computer science industry.
“After being injured and struggling with life, I couldn’t see what my options were. The Open University gives me flexibility and helps me mentally and with my disability.
“Having the drive and determination to learn but without the opportunity is very frustrating. Everyone strives to better themselves, everyone’s got to have an end game and the Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund offers the opportunity to keep learning. That’s what really makes a difference.”
From the Forces to the courtroom
When Kate Moth was medically discharged from the Army in 2016, she began doubting her sense of self and had no idea what she was supposed to do next. Fast forward a few years and Kate is now studying Law through the DVSF and says that having a positive goal to work towards makes all the difference. Read more about Kate’s journey so far.
Thank you for making a difference
We appreciate all our donors who have supported the Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund. You are giving veterans like Daniel and Kate the opportunity to rewrite their futures. You can learn more about the Fund and stay updated here.