How do I get support for my disability?
These are the steps to getting your full disability support at SHU. We know it can be difficult and can take a while, so if you need help at any point, please contact us or make an appointment.
Disclose your disabilityIf you didn't do this on your university application form you can register with Disabled Student Support via My Student Record, or by telling any member of staff, who will direct you to Disabled Student Support at any point throughout your course.
Once you have disclosed a disability, specific learning difficulty or medical condition, some support is available straightaway.
Provide medical evidenceWe support students through personalised Learning Contracts to share and agree with your tutors what adjustments you need to address barriers to your learning, e.g. extended deadlines, extra time, exam arrangements.
The best way to provide medical evidence is to register online or come to a drop in session.
Apply for DSAsMost disabled students should apply for Disabled Students Allowances (DSAs).
This is non-means tested support that helps to pay for equipment, software and support workers.
You need medical evidence to apply and we can help you with this.
We offer three types of appointment, depending on your enquiry:
We can answer simple queries and point you in the right direction.
These are ideal to help you apply for DSA or to answer quick questions about your learning contract or support workers.
The drop ins last no more than 20 minutes.
No appointment needed, just turn up to one of our reception points.
These are for students who have already attended a Study Needs Assessment or who are not eligible for DSA.
We sometimes use guidance appointments for students with urgent or complex needs.
Appointments are with a Disability Adviser and last for an hour.
Contact us to make an appointment.
These are comprehensive assessments of your support needs.
To attend these you have to have applied for DSA and received permission to book an assessment.
The assessments are with a Study Needs Assessor and last for around 2 hours.