We, Jenny, Kirstie and Rebecca, are fundraising on behalf of our classmate Sarah*. We are all currently in the second year of a Master’s degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy with Children and Adolescents. Sarah has been doing well but is no longer able financially to complete the course and needs help. Here is her story in her words:

I strove to change the predictions for my life and was the first in my family to gain a degree. My goal is to help people from the same background as me achieve their dreams. I have a passion for the emotional and educational welfare of the marginalised, particularly young people and black men.

As a black woman from a background that is economically disadvantaged, I expected to be challenged at some point but not in the area that is presented.

Due to unforeseen circumstances and two close bereavements, I have had many struggles during the second year of my course. Yet despite my significant personal losses, I have strived to continue my studies and remain committed to my course.

Due to events outside of my control, I am no longer able to fund the fees for my second year. I have made various applications with the University for help but to no avail. They are now threatening to terminate my place on the course unless I make the payments urgently.

I know that I am well suited for the course and the career that I have chosen but without support, I am vulnerable to failing, and I don’t have years to keep fighting an unchanging, uncaring system. Life will happen - how you get through it depends on the support that you have. If you are a person of colour that support is often not there, and I believe that this is the reason for the disparity in marginalised groups reaching their goals.

Thank you for reading my story.

Sarah needs 500 donations of £12.25 to meet her target. If you can help with ANY amount at all, it will all go towards her tuition fees.

Please help Sarah fulfil her dreams so that she can help others do the same. Thank you for any support you can give.

From,

Jenny, Kirstie and Rebecca

*Name has been changed.