Hi, my name is Phoebe Marsden, I’m 24 years old, and I’ve just graduated with a BA Honours degree in Criminology, something I never thought I’d be able to say.

Behind that achievement is a story of heartbreak, pain, and survival.

During my studies, my life fell apart. My parents separated, I experienced relentless bullying, and I was silently struggling with my mental health. There were days I didn’t think I’d survive, days where I didn’t want to. I’ve battled suicidal thoughts more times than I can count, and somehow, I’m still here. I kept going. I finished my degree through tears, loneliness, and fear, because I believed that one day, things could be different.

Now, I’ve been offered something I never thought I’d reach, a place at Liverpool John Moores University to study for a Master’s in Policing and Criminal Investigation. This course is more than just the next step in my education. It’s hope. It’s purpose. It’s a chance to finally use everything I’ve been through to help others.

I’ve even been offered a place to live with four other girls who are ready to continue their journey too. But there’s just one thing holding me back: I can’t afford the rent. After everything I’ve survived, it hurts more than I can say to feel like money could stop me from finally moving forward.

I want to make something of my life. I want to make my family proud. They’ve seen me at my lowest, and they’re cheering me on to take this next step. But I can’t do it alone.

If you can help in any way, no matter how small, you’d be giving me more than just financial support. You’d be giving me a chance to start over. A chance to heal, grow, and become the person I’ve fought so hard to be.

Thank you for reading my story. And thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for believing in me.

Phoebe