Declaring a Disability at University
We all love a good debate, a bit of who’s right and who’s wrong. So, the big question we’re asking – should you declare a disability when you go through the whole process of applying to university?
Yes or no?
Well come on, it’s an easy 100% YES answer to that question!
Don’t be tempted to either hide a disability or downplay it, you deserve the best experience you can get out of university, whether you have a disability or not, no matter how mild or severe, and everything else in-between. Don’t be ashamed and don’t hide yourself away and struggle, there’s no reason to. Anyone who applies and is accepted onto a university course deserves to have the same journey, with new friends, experiences, laughs, and of course, the study programme leading you to a sparkling career of your choice.
A disability should not affect that journey, and there are many kinds of assistance that can be put into place to help you achieve just that, and make your university life easier. All you have to do is declare what your disability is, and accept the help that is offered.
Will declaring my disability make a difference? Is it really worth it?
Yes, yes, yes!
The bottom line is that all universities are required by law to abide by the Disability Discrimination Act, established to ensure that everyone in the UK, whether a student, worker, or whatever else you are, is able to go about their lives in the best possible way, regardless of disability. This means that all students are entitled to receive the help and support they require, including any adjustments to buildings to help with mobility issues. This all adds up to a happy and healthy university life. Because work might be required to provide adaptations to residence buildings, give your university a call in advance, so they have plenty of notice to prepare for you to rock up for your first day. Most University campuses though, are now fully accessible buildings.
It will always be beneficial for you to be upfront and honest about your disability, regardless of whatever it is, because this opens up a world of support. Every university has a team dedicated to supporting students with disabilities, from giving advice on any grants available, discussing any problems you might have, or help with adjusting to your living or studying environment.
The student support staff at your chosen university can also help you by carrying out assessments to identify any problem areas where you could benefit from more support. Basically, everyone is on your side, and the common aim is to help you through university.
<h2?Will my disability have a negative impact on my course?
Under the Disability Discrimination Act, you cannot be refused a place on a course that wouldn’t negatively impact your health or ability to study without good reason, however there are some courses and indeed jobs out there that require a standard of fitness. This is called fitness to practise, and unfortunately some disabilities may rule you out of these courses and roles. You might already be aware of aware of this, but if you’re not sure about reaching fitness standards for a chosen field, the best thing to do is chat to student support staff and also those in the professional field of your choice. It might be that it’s just a case of fine tuning your targets, but it’s better to start with realistic aims to work towards.
On the whole, the majority of courses and future careers are more than possible for everyone, within reason.
Is there any funding available?
You can apply for a special grant, called Disabled Students Allowance, or DSA to make it less of a tongue twister, at the time of applying for your student loan or when you’re seriously deciding to accept your university offer. This is from the LEA and any money granted must be used towards your educational costs, so bear that in mind!
Grants and funding can be confusing but this is a relatively easy process, which basically just requires you to have written proof of your disability, such as a doctor or charted educational psychologist’s letter. If you can’t obtain the relevant letter then your chosen university will be able to perform an assessment of your disability.
If you do receive a DSA grant then this will go towards helping with any special equipment you need to buy or any adjustments you need to make personally in helping you complete your studies. Those helpful student support staff we were talking about earlier will help you through your application, so don’t worry about scary forms and processes.
So the answer to our debate is… Yes!
The overwhelming opinion in this discussion is that declaring a disability, any disability, is a must-do when you’re heading off to the bright lights of university. It makes no sense to struggle, and you mustn’t make your experience at university any more difficult than it needs to be. The only difficulty should be handing in those assignments on time! The processes and support networks at university are in place for a reason, so take advantage of them.
With all the help available, it’s nonsensical to pass it up.