Should I apply for the general or arts Black Heart Foundation scholarship for Interi

Hi everyone,
My name is Louie and I’m starting a Foundation Year in Interior Design at the University of Salford this September. I came across the Black Heart Foundation scholarship and I’m planning to apply, but I’m unsure whether I should apply under the general category, the arts category, or both has anyone applied before who might know how this works?
Also, does anyone know:
How much funding they usually award?
When you typically hear back after applying?
I’d really appreciate any advice or experience you can share.
For context, here's my personal statement. I'd love feedback especially if anyone has tips for improving it or making it more suited to this type of scholarship:
My name is Louie, and I will be starting a Foundation Year in Interior Design at the University of Salford this September. This course represents a fresh start and a crucial step toward achieving my goal of becoming a creative professional in the interior design industry.
I have always been fascinated by how well-designed spaces can affect people’s moods, behaviours, and overall wellbeing. Interior design combines creativity, problem-solving, and empathy — qualities I connect with deeply. I'm passionate about learning how to design environments that are both beautiful and functional, and I'm determined to develop my skills to make a positive impact through design.
Before applying for this course, I hadn’t been in education since 2022. I worked until October 2023, when worsening physical and mental health conditions made continuing in employment impossible. Since then, I’ve focused on preparing to return to education and pursue a career that aligns with my passions and abilities.
I am estranged from my parents and have been financially independent for over three years. I rely solely on benefits, including Universal Credit (with housing and LCWRA components) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which help cover basic living costs. However, they don’t stretch far enough to cover the added costs of education and disability-related needs.
My disabilities include Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, anxiety, depression, complex PTSD, and Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD). These conditions affect my day-to-day life significantly. I experience chronic joint pain and fatigue, frequent sensory overload, and mental health challenges. I use a powered wheelchair and walking aids, and attend private therapies like massage and acupuncture — vital support that the NHS can't fully cover. I also use medical cannabis as part of my pain management plan. Educationally, I need tools like coloured paper and adapted materials to manage sensory issues, which are more expensive.
Studying interior design will also require me to buy drafting tools, design software licenses, and other specialised materials. Without financial support, affording these essentials will be extremely difficult and may impact my ability to fully participate in the course.
Receiving this scholarship would be life-changing. It would reduce financial stress, help me manage my health more effectively, and allow me to focus entirely on my studies. It would also support access to therapies and accessible materials that are vital to my success.
The Black Heart Foundation’s mission resonates with me deeply. As a trans man who has faced family estrangement and chronic health challenges, I understand the barriers that come from financial insecurity. This scholarship would be a crucial step in removing those barriers and helping me unlock my potential.
More than just funding, this support would give me the chance to fully engage in university life, participate in extracurricular opportunities, and build a future in interior design. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to apply and share my story, and I hope to show that I am a committed, resilient, and passionate student ready to succeed.
Thanks so much in advance for any help, feedback, or guidance on this!
Louie 😊