Lydia’s Paramedic Journey
This is not something I would usually do, however I am now out of ideas. I have even tried writing to my MP regarding my situation but havehad no luck, and have been rejected from so many smaller grants, this is the final thing left I have to try. Below is some information on what’s been going on for me - I appreciate that I am not entitled to any help from anyone, and in all honesty I don’t expect any help, I just thought I’d put it out there just incase there are any kind souls willing to help.
I am Lydia, and I am just heading into my final year of my Paramedic Science degree. Unfortunately, as you may know, I already have a degree in Biomedical Science. When I applied for the Paramedic Science course I was unaware that I may not get student finance for the course. Upon hearing this, I contacted Student Finance England to enquire as to whether I would qualify, and was told yes I would get it funded as it was on the list of exception courses. Of course, once I had accepted my place and applied for the funding I was let down for the first time, and told I didn’t qualify for full funding due to my previous degree, but that they would fund my course to completion if I paid for years 1 and 2. I then proceeded to take out a loan to pay for these first two years, which together is a total of £18500. Of course, once I applied for the promised funding for my third year, I was told that I shouldn’t have been told this and I was not eligible for any help whatsoever. Great. I am unable to edit my loan to borrow another £9250 for the final year, due to not being able to work as well as do a full time uni course with placement, and still prioritise my two children. Thankfully, a new grant was announced. I enquired as to whether I would be eligible and was told yes. So I applied, and was accepted! Three weeks later, I was let down for the final time when I was contacted to say that I am not eligible and will no longer be receiving this funding, which was a total of £7000 and would have helped me to pay for the final years course fees. I have now got to find £9250 to be able to finish my degree and before I can register as a Paramedic. If you are able to help in any way I would be so grateful. However, I appreciate that the world is tough at the moment and I shouldn’t really be asking for help, and I am a little embarrassed to be doing so. Thank you for reading,
Lydia