Dan Richards is a disabled veteran whose life was turned around thanks to an Open University (OU) scholarship.
Dan, 38 living in Lancashire, lost his right arm and shoulder in a motorbike accident in 2009 ending his military career in the King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery.
It was back in the UK, two years after serving in Afghanistan in 2007 to gain operational experience, that the accident happened.
While his dreams of becoming a farrier in the military were over, a new chapter eventually emerged.
He credits the OU with helping him rewrite his future through a scholarship to study a degree in Sports, Fitness and Coaching, and he wants to help others benefit like he has.
The OU is inviting disabled veterans to apply for the same Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships Fund (DVSF) that Dan successfully joined, for the 2024/25 academic year.
This marks the seventh year of the programme, which offers 50 fully funded scholarships to veterans who have been injured or disabled in or due to service.
Dan’s transition to civilian life proved challenging and impacted his mental health. Yet, his determined spirit prevailed.
He found solace in a series of incredible adventures that included learning to fly a plane, becoming a qualified scuba diver, training to row across the Atlantic Ocean, and finding sanctuary in cycling.
He said: “This led to me competing in the 2018 Invictus Games and the Race Across America in 2022. I felt that with every pedal stroke I was breaking down barriers and proving that limitations exist only to be overcome.”
While training for the gruelling 3,000-mile race, Dan discovered a passion for sports performance management. He applied for the OU’s Disabled Veterans’ Scholarship and is now in his second year of studying for his degree.
Dan said: “The experience so far has been nothing short of revelatory, offering me a perspective on learning my younger self could never have imagined.”
The DVSF has already empowered 312 veterans from diverse service backgrounds to pursue their educational aspirations despite facing complex health challenges.
This year, the DVSF is offering 50 scholarships worth up to £1,250,000. Each scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees for up to 360 credits, equivalent to a full honours degree.
They also receive tailored careers and disability support including careers advice, access to employer networks, and tailored support to help with studies, such as alternative format materials and specialist equipment.
On studying for his degree, Dan said:
“I always felt like a secondary-school failure, so the fact that I’m achieving high grades at degree level is a testament to how far I’ve come. Scoring 90% on my most recent Tutor Marked Assignment is a source of immense pride. The OU has equipped me with a broader perspective and the confidence to navigate my future.”
The scholarship places are in high demand, with 70 applications received for the 50 available places last year. The program thrives thanks to the generosity of alumni, friends, and OU supporters who have collectively raised an incredible £4.53m since its launch in 2018.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Rt Hon Johnny Mercer MP said:
“Our veterans leave the military with an abundance of unique skills, resilience and tenacity.
“I am delighted to see the continuation of the Open University grant programme, which gives our disabled veterans the opportunity to adapt the skills they acquired in the military and bring them into the world of civilian employment.”
To the OU community who make these scholarships possible, Dan added:
“To do something so generous for someone you don’t know is one of the greatest gifts.
“Your generosity has not only alleviated financial burdens but has also reignited my belief in the possibilities that lie ahead. Thank you for providing me with this chance to redefine my narrative and explore the untapped potential within.”
Applications for the 2024/2025 Disabled Veterans Scholarship Fund must be submitted by midday on 10 July 2024. Full eligibility criteria and details on how to apply can be found on the OU website: Disabled Veterans’ Scholarships | How to Pay | Open University
Read Dan’s full story here on OU News: ‘My scholarship has equipped me with the confidence to navigate my future – I’ll always be grateful’ – OU News
