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How do I declare a disability or additional support need?
You can declare a disability or support need on your course application, once you have accepted your offer of a place, once you have enrolled or at any time during your course.
If you have already started your course, you should contact the Disability team via the Gateway desk located in the Library.
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What should I do before I enrol to ensure support is arranged for the start of my course?
If you feel that you have individual accessibility issues, you should contact the Disability & SpLD team as soon as possible so we can discuss and consider these with you, prior to the start of your course.
It’s important that you can begin your learning journey at UCA confident that everything is in place to support you and your studies.
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What about funding?
In many cases, UK students applying for higher education courses may be able to apply for the Disabled Students Allowance.
Students applying for further education courses can have their needs assessed at the University and we will in turn provide support where possible.
If you are in any doubt about financial arrangements or funding, please contact the Disability & SpLD team.
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International students
To be eligible to apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance you need to hold home residency status.
If you are an international student, you should seek advice on what support you might be entitled to from your home country. You could also consider what other funding may be available through grant giving trusts and charities. Further information can be provided by our Specialist Advisers.
Further information on fees, funding and support for international students can be found on the UKCISA website.
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What is a DSA needs assessment?
The aim of the external DSA needs assessment is to discuss and recommend the type of support you might require on your course. There are several Needs Assessment Access Centres around the country.
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What support is available for students with a disability?
We have a team of experienced and trained support staff who can work with you to understand your requirements and what you might need to support your learning.
This could include accessibility and on-course reasonable adjustments, external specialist support and access to specialist equipment and resources.
For example, adjustments for students with hearing impairments could include:
- Installation of loop systems in lecture theatres
- Improved signage across all colleges to aid the location of facilities
- Special communication and safety equipment in the halls of residence
- Co-ordination of support such as interpreter, communication support worker and/or notetaker
- Personal evacuation plan.
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Medication
We have qualified first aiders on site who will be able to administer epi-pens in emergency situations (CHECK). However, our staff are not trained to administer other medications to students, so it is important that you are able to self-medicate, without support.
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Parking
The Disability team will be happy to arrange for a dedicated parking permit for students with mobility difficulties.