AN Okehampton student has started university with the support of a unique social mobility programme from Lloyds Banking Group.

Bethany Drew, from Okehampton, will be attending Bristol University to study law, thanks to the support of Lloyds Scholars programme.

The Lloyds Scholars programme offers financial assistance, two paid ten-week internships and a dedicated mentor from Lloyds Banking Group to help support talented undergraduates from lower income backgrounds. Lloyds scholars are also required to complete at least 100 hours of volunteering in their local area alongside their studies — all of which helps them make the most of their university experience and become more employable as a result and make a valuable difference within their communities.

Paul O’Neill, head of Lloyds Scholars, said: ‘The Lloyds Scholars programme has been building momentum over the past five years and I look forward to welcoming Bethany on to the programme. As part of our ambition to help Britain prosper, we are committed to addressing inequality, supporting disadvantaged people and championing Britain’s diversity. Our scholars programme helps us deliver on all of these commitments and has a positive impact on the students’ time at university and beyond.’

Over 600 scholars have now been supported by the programme with 156 who have graduated to date. Another 120 have joined the programme for this cohort, following a competitive application process.