Hi, I’m Liam.

I’m 17, turning 18 soon, and I’ve recently been offered a degree apprenticeship with HaysMac in London as an Audit Associate.

Coming from a single-parent household, university was never a realistic option for me financially. This apprenticeship is an incredible opportunity, allowing me to start my career, earn a salary, and work towards my ACA qualification at the same time.

Since starting my A-levels, I’ve worked consistently towards opportunities like this by focusing on my studies and putting myself in a position to compete for and secure a role of this level. I’m proud of the work I’ve put in to get here, and I’m fully committed to making the most of this opportunity.

Since being offered the role, I’ve taken full responsibility for exploring how I can make this work financially. I’ve spoken directly with HaysMac regarding support options, and while there is a season ticket loan available after a probation period, there is limited flexibility in the short term. I also explored support through my school and local funding routes, however I was advised that I do not qualify for available schemes.

Alongside this, I have carefully reviewed my own financial position. I will be earning a salary, contributing at home, and managing my spending as tightly as possible. I’ve also planned how I will budget and save from my income to become fully self-sufficient as quickly as I can.

However, the upfront cost of commuting from Norwich to London (around two hours each way) during the initial months creates a financial gap before I am able to build savings and access longer-term support through my employer.

I am raising £2,200 to cover approximately two months of commuting costs. This acts as a short-term bridge, allowing me to settle into the role, perform at my best, and establish financial stability early on. After this period, I will be covering all commuting costs independently from my salary.

This support would not replace my responsibility, it would simply give me the stability needed to transition into this role properly and sustain myself long term.

Sometimes the difference between an opportunity and being able to take it is simply having the right support at the start.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Any contribution, no matter how small, or sharing this page, would genuinely mean a great deal.

Kind regards,

Liam.