From Student to Paramedic

“This fund has been imperative to my educational and professional development, it’s allowed me to independently develop my academic and practical ability. I will soon become a qualified paramedic and (the fund) has significantly helped me reach that goal.”

Catrin Owen received support from the Educational Fund for Denbigh and Surrounding Areas to help her through her paramedic training. The funding eased financial pressures and enabled her to fully focus on her studies, leading to a successful degree, additional qualifications, and her dream job as a paramedic.

Catrin was always committed to becoming a paramedic, but the financial demands of training – rent, travel, food, and specialist equipment – were cumbersome. Like many healthcare students, she also needed to fund extra licences and placements, all while keeping up with her course work.

A grant of £1,500 helped cover essential living costs as well as her C1 driving licence and fuel for placement travel. With these pressures eased, Catrin was able to devote more time and energy to her learning. She consistently achieved A and A* grades, took on extra-curricular courses in anatomy, trauma management, safeguarding, and even birth delivery, all of which enhanced her skills and employability.

Catrin will soon become a qualified paramedic. She credits the fund with helping her reach her goal, not just by lifting financial stress, but by giving her the freedom to grow professionally.