Compelling Personal Reasons

I am getting in touch to ask for guidance on applying for extra student funding due to compelling personal reasons.

In 2009 I began studying for an Undergraduate Degree in Museum Conservation and Archaeology at Cardiff University. During the first term of my second year in 2010 I was diagnosed with severe depression and referred to Cardiff Links Centre Mental Health Clinic, and also used all of my entitlement to student counselling at the University Hospital. Because of this I took a leave of absence for the rest of the academic year, which my GP in Cardiff wrote a supporting letter for. During this absence I still received student funding.

As I was due to start my 2^nd year from the beginning again in September 2010 I felt I was not as of yet ready to return, so did not re-enrol and withdrew from my studies. I then moved back home to Northumberland to concentrate on my health with my family’s support and got back on my feet. This means I do not yet have a full degree.

I now wish to apply for an Undergraduate degree in Archaeology at Newcastle University which is the closest to my home. I have not yet applied as the only way this would be viable for myself, is with the support of Student Finance. It is my understanding that each Student is allocated funding for the length of their degree plus an extra grace year, in my case totalling 4 years. This would be ok if I am permitted to transfer my passed 1^st year. However, because I focused on Archaeological Conservation and not field practice I may have to apply for entry from year 1.

If this is the case can you please advise me on applying for my extra year of funding? Because I am no longer in Cardiff, would a letter from my GP at home, plus evidence from my NHS records suffice? Or would I also have to contact student services at Cardiff? (I do not have copies of any correspondences from them at the time. I understand a decision cannot be made prior to my application with evidence, but can you give me an indication to whether this would qualify as compelling reasons. I am reluctant to apply if I will be unable to fund a potential first year.

I am very grateful for any support and advice you can offer me on this.
Rosie Thompson.