Hello

First of all, make sure you watch the video, this will explain what I'm doing, why I'm doing it and what help I need.

The short version is, I'm trying to crowdfund my way to being able to go back to college to retrain as a Counsellor. I've already completed the required Certificate in Counselling and have applied to do the two year Advanced Diploma in Integrative Counselling at the Irom Mill College in Exeter which will start in Setember 2019. 

Money

In January of this year the government scrapped their Professional Career Development Loans scheme where I could've borrowed the money for the course without interest for the first few years while I study. As this now isn't an option, I'm having to resort to a slightly more creative way of coming up with the cash. 

In total I'll need to raise £9145. This is what the money will go towards:

• £5995 - to the Iron Mill College which is the fee to complete the 2 year Advanced Diploma. This is their early bird offer and whilst it could seem expensive, at the end of the two years, once I've completed all the assignments, personal counselling and placements, I'll be qualified to practice as a Counsellor.
• £1800 - for 40 hours of personal counselling, which is a requirement of the course.
• £1350 - for supervision of my 150 placement hours, which is a British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) requirement.  

My Story

For those of you that haven't met me, my name is Rich. For the last few years now I've been working part-time for a local church community, twisting balloons at events around Devon and being a stay-at-home-dad, helping raise our kids - It's been a blast. My childcare duties are about to change with our third and final child heading off to school this September. I've decided that I'd like to train to become a Counsellor so that I can spend the next phase of my working life journeying with people. This will be a way of outworking my belief that change is always possible and provide a context for real, honest conversations, which I find particularly energising. 

Rewards

As I mentioned in the video, I doubt the rewards will be the main reason for donating, but they could be a little extra treat and a reminder that you're on the journey with me. 

Thank You

Lastly, a massive thank you for taking the time to visit this page and for taking an interest in what I'm doing. Over the years I've been really impacted by the amazing kindness and generosity of humans. People are incredible. 

Thanks : )