A CHARITY set up to honour three amazing Kidderminster physicians is offering bursaries to students in Worcestershire wanting to train as a doctor.
The John Weston Stretton Charity supports students from the county who are studying medicine at Cambridge University, Barts and The London School of Medicine, or the Three Counties Medical School, Worcester.
The organisation was established in 2013 in the memory of three remarkable Victorian and Edwardian doctors – Samuel, Lionel and John Stretton. These doctors dominated the medical history of Kidderminster from 1856 until John’s death in 1952. All three were trained at Cambridge University and St Barts Hospital London.
Since 2013 the charity has financially supported around 70 medical students. Once approved for funding, the bursary is available throughout a student’s medical studies, which is usually six years. A simple annual application is required, supported by a certificate of attendance from the university.
Previous students
Elizabeth, from Worcester, graduated from Barts and The London School of Medicine in July. She is now a Foundation Year 1 Resident Doctor at Hereford County Hospital. She received £18,000 of funding from the charity between 2019 and 2024, allowing her to focus on her studies without the added stress of financial pressures.
She said: “The application process was very easy, only one form each year and confirmation
from the medical school that I was a student in the respective year.
“The funding helped me in endless ways – from using it towards my rent to paying for books, food and travel expenses living in London!”
Chris Hallam, also from Worcester, has just commenced his second year at the Three Counties Medical School.
He received a £5,000 bursary in Year 1 and should soon receive funding for his second year.
Commenting on the bursary Chris said: “The financial support from the Charity was a tremendous help during my first year of medical studies.
“It relieved a significant financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my education and less on financial stress.
“The support allowed me to invest in essential resources, such as textbooks, medical equipment, and exam
preparation materials, which are crucial for success in my academic journey.”
Applications are considered at meetings of the charity trustees. The next meeting will take place on Monday, September 23, and successful applicants will receive finding shortly after.
Visit johnwestonstretton.org.uk for more information and to submit an application.
After Monday’s decision, there will be further tranches of funding.
