Turning your life around can feel like an uphill battle, but having the right support can make all the difference. That’s exactly what the Longford Trust offers. They provide scholarships and mentoring to people with convictions, helping them access higher education and build a brighter future. For many, it’s a lifeline—an opportunity to change direction and prove that second chances really do matter.
One of their scholars shares his story.
I come from a single-parent home as the youngest of four siblings. Growing up, I wasn’t any more disruptive than other children, but at the age of nine, I was placed into the care system due to my mother’s inability to “control me.”
This experience shaped my life in ways that led to years of drug use, criminal behaviour, and a self-centred mindset. My choices caused pain to family, friends, and others, something I deeply regret. I am by no means proud of the harm I may have caused.
That lifestyle inevitably led to numerous stints in prison, turning into a 20-year cycle that felt like a never-ending merry-go-round. In 2019, I found myself in prison again, but this time, something shifted. I had a clear vision of the person I wanted to become—and I knew I could be—that was entirely different from who I was at that moment.
I immediately applied for and began working towards a BA (Hons) Open Degree in Psychology. Despite having little to no support from the prison system, I managed to complete three years of study. When I was transferred to an open prison (Category D), the looming reality of release and the responsibilities of family life left me feeling panicked. While working full-time outside of the prison, I sought help and came across The Longford Trust. That’s when I met Phillipa Bugden, who was the scholarship manager at the time, and later Clare, the current manager—both of whom were incredible.
I am particularly grateful for the support I’ve received from The Longford Trust. It hasn’t just been financial; it’s also been emotional. Their help has played a huge role in keeping me on the right path.
Unfortunately, the prison system offered me little support in pursuing my degree or preparing for life after release. I relied on resources like The Hardman Directory, but I hadn’t initially come across The Longford Trust. One day, during a work break, I stumbled upon their website, left a message, and was contacted by the scholarship manager. She guided me through the application process, even though I submitted it late.
My experience with The Longford Trust has been life-changing. Their guidance and encouragement made a significant difference in helping me achieve my degree. The application process wasn’t easy, but they supported me every step of the way, which made all the difference.
Before working with The Longford Trust, I already valued education as a means to better myself. Despite not attending high school or earning GCSEs, I had managed to complete three years of study on my own. However, The Longford Trust solidified my mindset and approach to education and personal growth.
I’m proud to have earned a BA (Hons) in Psychology, graduating with a 2:2. It was a moment of immense pride for me. My goal is to enter the mental health sector when my circumstances allow, helping others and giving back to a society from which I’ve taken so much during my years of self-destruction. I’ve already started volunteering as a peer mentor and hope to expand into other opportunities soon.
From my experience, prisons fail to adequately promote resources like The Longford Trust. The focus of prison education tends to be on basic functional skills, which they are funded to deliver, rather than higher education. I faced numerous barriers, even having to purchase my own stationery, but I persevered. Many people in prison have the potential to study and benefit from support like this, but they are often unaware such help exists.
To anyone reading this, no matter your past or present circumstances, I encourage you to pursue education. It’s a powerful tool to improve your future, your hopes, and your prospects. Organisations like The Longford Trust make this possible and offer invaluable support.
I would like to thank The Longford Trust for the opportunities and second chances they provide. Their work is truly transformative.
To find out more about the work of The Longford Trust and to apply for a scholarship for yourself or someone you may know, visit: www.longfordtrust.org/
