As we mark International Day of Education on 24 January, we are reminded of the vital role that learning plays in helping people rebuild their lives and shape new futures.
Most soldiers adapt well to civilian life, but for some the shift can be overwhelming. Our charity works to ensure that those who need additional support can access opportunities to retrain, develop new skills, and build fulfilling post‑service careers. We fund bursaries for disabled veterans, invest in training pathways, and partner with specialist organisations so that the Army family can continue contributing to society with dignity and independence.
Aligned with this mission, and on a day dedicated to recognising the transformative power of education, we have awarded a £10,000 grant to The Open University’s Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund (DVSF). The fund offers free access to OU courses for former members of the Armed Forces who have been injured in, or as a result of, their service. It is the only scheme of its kind in the UK, combining fully funded study with specialist disability support and tailored careers guidance.
Our grant will help cover the staff costs that keep this support system running. This includes the teams responsible for selecting, registering and onboarding new scholars, as well as the specialist staff who work closely with veterans throughout their studies. Scholarships Champions provide personalised guidance and help secure essential assessments and equipment, while the careers service offers webinars, one‑to‑one sessions, mentoring and veteran‑specific job resources.
Karen Hart, Director of Development, The Open University, said:
“The Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund (DVSF) supports veterans injured in, or due to, service to access free Open University education, helping them rebuild confidence, rediscover purpose and open up new career pathways. The Army Benevolent Fund was one of the very first charitable partners to support the fee-waiver element of the programme in 2020, and its ongoing commitment has provided vital support ever since.
“Thanks to the ABF’s generous grants, ten full scholarships for disabled Army veterans have been awarded – transformational opportunities that continue to change lives and futures. We are very grateful for the support received to help re-write the futures of former Army veterans with a disability who wish to change their lives through the transformative power of higher education.”
Brigadier (Ret’d) Peter Monteith, Chief Operating Officer of the Army Benevolent Fund, added:
“The Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund opens the door to new opportunities for those who have served our country and now face additional challenges as a result of their service. By supporting the specialist staff who guide, advise and champion these veterans throughout their studies, this grant helps ensure they can learn with dignity, confidence and the right support in place. We are honoured to continue our long-standing partnership with The Open University and to help disabled veterans build brighter futures.”