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Veterans Aid 'graduates' study in Oxford
Dr Hugh Milroy, CEO of Veterans Aid, said: "I approached Ruskin to discuss a relationship because I knew of its unique reputation in giving disadvantaged adults a crack at higher education - men and women just like our clients." London-based Veterans Aid sent its first student - a former homeless ex-soldier - to the Oxford-based College in October. The IT course he has now successfully completed has put him on the first rung of the ladder towards a new career and a brighter future. Jonathan Fullan said; "Completing this course gave me confidence again. I can't explain how good it felt to be learning something positive in a friendly and supportive environment. I was nervous about it, but excited as well. It's been brilliant." Jonathan will hopefully be the first of many VA 'Ruskin students'. Former submariner Nigel Naesmith hopes to start a degree course in 2011. He said "I was homeless for 30 years after leaving the Royal Navy. I suffered from depression and, latterly, Parkinson's Disease. I would have died in the winter of 2009 if it had not been for Veterans Aid. They enabled me to stabilise my health and find a safe home. Now, through their association with Ruskin College, I have the opportunity to study for a degree next year. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever imagine graduating from a park bench in Italy to a classroom in Oxford." The VA/Ruskin partnership is underpinned by a shared understanding that education is an important survival tool. Dr Hugh Milroy added "People come to VA in crisis and we address their immediate needs. But recovery is only the beginning; they need the means to sustain themselves and often education is the key." "We are delighted to be joining with Veterans Aid to offer people fresh chances. Ruskin's progression pathways mean that there's something here for anyone who never finished their education, be they like Jonathan taking a one-week course, or like Nigel who is hoping to take a full degree."
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Two organisations dedicated to opening doors for people trying to start a new life have joined forces. Veterans Aid and Ruskin College are committed to providing opportunities for men and women who need a second chance. Both are registered charities with a proven track record in making dreams come true.
