APPLICATIONS for places on the Lloyds Scholars programme, the unique social mobility programme from Lloyds Banking Group, are now open.

Through a partnership with eight leading universities the programme offers a complete package of financial support, paid internships and a business mentor for students from lower income households.

One of last year’s successful applicants is from Bournemouth and is currently enjoying the university education she may not have been able to afford without the scholarship.

Madison Honey is currently studying Biochemistry at the University of Bristol as part of the Lloyds Scholars programme and is hoping to see more local students apply to follow in their footsteps this year.

Now in its sixth year, the programme gives undergraduates an all-round professional and vocational experience, offering an annual bursary, the chance for students to develop their employability skills and the opportunity to join the Group’s Graduate Programme following their degree.

In return, students must volunteer for at least 100 hours per year whilst participating on the programme, benefitting both the local community and developing their own employability skills.

Most universities currently charge £9,000 per year in tuition fees and students must also find money for accommodation and living expenses.

Many students expect to have debts of at least £50,000 by the time they have completed their degrees, a figure which is believed to be putting many people off applying at all.

Paul O’Neill, Head of Lloyds Scholars programme, said: “We are delighted that Madison is part of the Lloyds Scholars programme.

“We would love to see more promising students from the Bournemouth area apply this year, and help contribute to Lloyds Banking Group’s aim to Help Britain Prosper.”

To be eligible to apply, students must come from homes where household income is under £25,000, and have accepted their place at one of the leading Universities taking part in the programme.

The partner universities are University College London and the Universities of Bath, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Oxford, Sheffield and Warwick.

Go to lloyds-scholars.com for more information.