DISADVANTAGED students will have a chance to study at a city university, thanks to a new John Lennon awards scheme funded by his wife.
The Daily Post can reveal the Beatle’s widow, Yoko Ono, is donating £260,000 of her own money so students brought up in care are able to thrive at Liverpool John Moores University.
Her cash is funding a new John Lennon Imagine Awards scheme, aimed at students who have been in care or become estranged from their families.
Her music legend husband was famously raised in Menlove Avenue, Allerton, from the age of five until his late teens by his aunt Mimi Smith.
Last night, Yoko said John would have approved of the fund at the university, where he studied at its art school in 1957.
The 76-year-old said: “I am delighted to have been able to set up these awards in John’s name, not only because he was a student at the art school, but also because he genuinely would have wanted to help these students achieve their personal goals.”
Children’s charity The Frank Buttle Trust applauded the scheme, saying those who grow up in care often suffer a disrupted schooling and are left with “low” expectations of education.
Eligible students will get a special bursary, which can be put towards rent and the cost of living.
But they will also receive individual packages of support to suit their particular needs.
Personal mentors will offer help and advice where needed on things like independent living, managing finances, and studying tips.
Students will also receive help to find accommodation and, if required, somewhere to live all year round.
Yoko said she was aware care leavers and students without family support often faced greater challenges than other young people in order to acquire qualifications and employment skills.
She said: “LJMU demonstrates a true commitment to helping students reach their full potential regardless of background and circumstance.
“This award will provide extra support for young people who perhaps need it the most – those who have not been able to receive any encouragement throughout their lives from family members but have shown the courage, determination and strength of character to achieve something for themselves.”
