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If you are dyslexic, asthmatic, have physical and/or mental disabilities, you may be entitled to state funding to help you through school.
Many students with disabilities would like to pursue higher education, but are deterred when faced with the realities of being a disabled university student. Universities have not only poor facilities for handicapped students, but are also frequently ill-equipped or strapped for time to provide a more visually based education to dyslexic students. The BBC also recently reported that 40% of inter-campus transport in London is inaccessible to disabled students (2009). There is limited financing, and generally students aren’t made aware of available grants and scholarships. Some may skip it entirely based on the lack of vocational focus specific to their disabilities (Barer 2007). These are only a few of the drawbacks.
The government recognises the need for additional help. There are over 63,000 disabled students in further and higher education in London seeking employable skills.
Make-up of disabled students in London (Barer 2007)
| Dyslexia |
52.4% |
|
Unseen disability
(including diabetes, epilepsy, and asthma)
|
18.4% |
| Deaf/Hearing impairment |
4.7% |
| Mental health difficulties |
4.2% |
| Multiple disabilities |
3.3% |
| Wheelchair/Mobility difficulties |
3.2% |
| Blind/Partially sighted |
2.5% |
| Autistic Spectrum Disorder |
0.2% |
| Personal care support |
0.2% |
| A disability not listed |
11.0% |
With proof that you have a disability from a physician, you could be eligible for the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). DSA will grant you funds for equipment, non-medical personal helper, additional transportation costs, tuition and a general disability allowance. Click here for a guide on the allowance, and click here to download the application form.
You are also eligible for access to the Learning Fund, the Disability Living Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance and Incapacity Benefit, a Housing Benefit, and check out the Family Fund.
Remember, disabled students go through a lot. Not only do they have to live with their disabilities, but they also deal with people who are unaccommodating and judgmental. These funds have been allocated to give the same opportunities to every student.
Alicia Warren 20/10/09
References
Barer, Robin. (2007). Disabled students in London: A review of higher and further education, including students with learning difficulties. Greater Authority London: London.
BBC. (2009). Disabled students are ‘penalised.’ BBC News Channel. Accessed 7 October 2009 via World Wide Web at: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/8205314.stm.
DirectGov. (2009). Student finance forms and guides 2009/2010. Directgov – Education and Learning. Accessed 7 October 2009 via World Wide Web at: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/UniversityAndHigherEducation/StudentFinance/DG_171624
Tinklin, Teresa; Riddell, Sheila; Wilson, Alastair. (2004). Disabled students in higher education. Briefing, 32. Economic and Social Research Council: England and Scotland.
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