Text provided by Natalie Freislich-Mills for the UniTasterDays Teachers' Guide to University, when in-post as the Head of Make Happen (Uni Connect Progrogramme)
Although special educational needs and
disabilities is a term used widely in schools
and colleges, at higher education this is
usually replaced with the term disabilities.
Some students may not identify with the term
disabled; however, it is important that students
are aware of their rights and the support
available to them during their studies.
The first step for students is to declare their
disability on their UCAS application. Universities
use this to begin conversations with students
early, to ensure support is in place from the
start. Declaring their disability will not affect
their offers, universities have a legal obligation
to ensure they are not discriminating against
students during admission and throughout
their education (Equality Act 2010). In addition,
any student who declares a disability is legally
entitled to reasonable adjustments. Universities
want students to succeed, and will be keen
to provide students with the information and
support they need.
Disabled students can apply for specific
funding in the form of the Disabled Students’
Allowance (DSA). The DSA helps to cover
additional costs incurred whilst accessing their
course and is usually applied for through the
relevant nation’s body for student finance. It is
a non-repayable grant and is dependent on a
student’s individual needs. If students are yet
to receive an official diagnosis, it is not too late.
Some universities offer full or partial financial
support for assessments once enrolled.
The types of support on offer for students
will vary depending on the university, so it’s
essential that students research carefully.
Generally, the focus is on developing
independent learning skills, so often support
is less than in schools and colleges. Disability
support is usually provided by student services
teams so encourage your students to get in touch or visit their page within the university
website to find out what is available.
University open days allow students to
meet staff as well as existing students to
find out what support is really like. Student
unions often have a disability officer who will
represent disabled students within university
decision making and ensure their interests are
represented.
Once students begin their course, some
universities will proactively keep in touch,
while others will expect students to take the
initiative. It is also important to consider how
the university supports students with career
transition, so encourage students to speak to
the career teams.