Disability Advice and Support in HE

Presenters:

Tina SharpeHead of Disability at DMU

Leanne HerbertNNCO Disability Officer

Key challenges

• Current practice

• Anticipated changes to DSA

• Expectations of the NNCO Disability Officer role

Student experience

“I received no support before

coming to uni as I was undiagnosed

as dyslexic”

“It was easier to find out about help at Uni as they were prepared to assess me but my school didn't bother because I was achieving high levels academically so they didn't think I could be dyslexic”.

“Open days helped me

find out what help is

available”

Learner Support Arrangements MeetingThe Learner Support Arrangements meeting is an opportunity to discuss support available from the faculty, Disabled Students’ Allowances and accommodation.

Faculty Support arranged by Faculty Disability Officer

Disabled Students’ Allowances - What is it?

Disabled Students’ Allowances - How do I apply?

To apply you will require medical evidence to support any application. This can be a letter from your GP or

specialist consultant.

DSA application forms are available on the Funding Provider’s web pages:

Student Finance England www.direct.gov.uk/dsas

Student Finance Wales www.studentfinancewales.co.uk

Student Finance Northern Ireland www.studentfinanceni.co.uk

Student Finance Scotland www.saas.gov.uk

NHS www.nhsstudentgrants.co.uk

Study Needs Assessment – What is it?

DSA Approval Received – what happens now?

When you have received the letter from your Funding Provider confirming what support has been approved.

You can:

• Order your equipment from the approved supplier• Approved support could be:

– Computer equipment– Specialist software– Note taking support– English support– BSL interpreter.

• Applicants to DMU - We can help you to order the equipment and arrange any other approved support.

Additional Funding

DMU Access to Learning Fund

DSA Changes

• £200 contribution to PC equipment for 2015/16

• ???

NNCO Disability Officer RoleNational Networks for Collaborative Outreach

• Developing and sharing of information

• Increase parent and student engagement

• Training and awareness raising

• Raising aspirations

Do you have any questions?