For students with specific learning or
other disabilities the prospect of further studies can be a daunting prospect
without some assistance in certain areas. Disabled student allowances are aimed
at relieving some of the more restrictive obstacles faced by these students in
respect of getting to classes and coping with the workload. Allowances are
intended for students who ordinarily reside in the UK and are seeking higher
education. Subject to certain specifications and dependent on a student's
location, various agencies exist to which the disabled may apply. Information
on these agencies is easily obtained from learning institutions.
Who Qualifies
Disabled student allowances apply to UK
residents who are attending full-time or part time, publically funded, higher
education courses in the UK. It applies to both undergraduate and postgraduate
programmes, although the amount paid to each student varies according to their
individual needs. Each student must attend a needs assessment appointment at a,
DSA QAG approved assessment
centre. The actual monies awarded can be divided into four categories.
Specialist equipment
This includes a computer and any specialist
software required to enable those with disabilities to participate fully in
classes, as well as any training required for its use. Digital recorders and
specialist furniture intended to lend support are also covered and becomes the
property of the student.
Non-medical helpers
Students who require assistance with
mobility, taking notes, or a sign language interpreter will receive an
allowance covering such a helper's wages, but not their personal expenses.
Specialist tuition
Students who can prove a reliance on study
support where disabilities such as dyslexia prevent effective learning may have
these costs allowed.
Care for daily living
This allowance does not cover assistance
that would be required even if the persons were not studying. It may cover
items required in the place of residence that enable home study or research.
Disabled students may also be eligible for
travel costs that are incurred as a result of the disability, but it will not
cover normal travel costs faced by all students.
How to Apply
If an application to a higher learning
institute specifies that a student has special needs, then that student will be
issued with a DSA 1 application form. This form, together with evidence of the
stated disability should then be submitted to the appropriate agency for
consideration. Health related disabilities will need confirmation by a doctor.
Specific learning disabilities such as dyslexia will require certification of
an assessment that was done after the student's 16th birthday by a chartered
psychologist or a specialist teacher in possession of an assessment practising
certificate. If the application is approved, then a needs assessment will be
carried out.
The needs assessment is purely to determine
exactly what form of assistance is likely to be of most benefit to a disabled
student. Assessment centres are widespread and should be easily accessible to
students and an appointment must be made by the student at one such centre.
Once these special needs have been established the assessment centre will
notify the student and suggest an early meeting with a university's disability
officer. Advice regarding the acquisition of necessary equipment or help will
be provided by the disability officer.
Disabled student allowances are intended
for costs that arise over and above assistance normally provided to special
needs students by learning institutions. Disabled student allowances are also
subject to terms and conditions specific to a UK location. These vary and it is
for students to ascertain from an appropriate agency exactly what their
entitlements are. Finally, it should be remembered that these agencies exist to
assist and not to hinder disabled students in achieving their maximum
potential.
