Disability Service

The Disability Service supports disabled students to experience in full what the University has to offer

We provide study support for students: 

• With mental health difficulties 
• With dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and dysgraphia 
• Who are autistic, have ADHD, or are neurodivergent 
• With long-term health conditions 
• Who are deaf/ hearing impaired, or blind/ visually impaired 
• Who have a mobility impairment

This isn’t a full list – if you have an ongoing condition that affects your studies, we’ll support you or connect you with services that can help.

Support is available even if your condition fluctuates. You don’t need to be unwell all the time to receive support.

You may identify as disabled – or may not feel this term applies to you. Either way, we are here to ensure you are supported. 

If you're not sure the Disability Service is for you, contact us, or check the support available to all students.

Register so that we can support you

The Disability Service works closely with the University's Colleges, Schools, academic departments, Student Services, Advisers of Study and Disability Coordinators to ensure disabled students receive the support that’s right for them.

If you are new to the Disability Service, the best way to get yourself into support is to complete a Study Support Request. Alternatively, come to a drop-in.

We provide adjustments and support so that disabled students are not disadvantaged

The Disability Service can arrange for changes (called reasonable adjustments) to how disabled students are taught and assessed. This could include receiving learning materials in an alternative format (such as large print or electronically) or having extra time in exams. 

For some students, we can organise for you to have regular one-to-one support with a study skills tutor or mentor. Registering with the Disability Service means we can work with you to understand your needs and get you supported.

If you are new to the Disability Service, the best way to get yourself into support is to complete a Study Support Request. Alternatively, come to a drop-in.

Use a DAP to get a five-day coursework extension

If you are disabled and registered with the Disability Service, you have unlimited access to Delayed Assessment Permits (DAPs).

Using a DAP, you can move the deadline for one piece of coursework by five working days. If you have a Study Support Plan through the Disability Service, you may use DAPs as required and are not subject to the standard three DAPs per academic year limit. To get a DAP, use the Extenuating Circumstances Portal.

Coursework extension longer than five days

If you need a coursework extension of longer than five days, you cannot use a DAP. Instead, submit Extenuating Circumstances through the Extenuating Circumstances Portal to ask for a longer extension.

Exams adjustments are recorded in the Study Support Plan

We use a Study Support Plan (SSP) to record any exams adjustments we have agreed with you, such extra time or use of a computer. You can check your SSP to see what is in place for you.

Adjustments listed in your SSP are in place for you now and for your entire programme of study. You do not have to renew these with us annually.

If you do not have a SSP and feel you may need exams adjustments, complete a Study Support Request.

If you do have a SSP but feel that the adjustments in your SSP may not meet your needs, or if you want to discuss other adjustments or study support, email us or come to a drop-in.

An injury or temporary condition is something you do not expect to last a year or more

For example, if you:

• have broken a bone or injured your hand
• have a temporary illness (like a cold)
• are planning or recovering from surgery

If you have an injury or temporary condition, you should contact your Adviser of Studies and/or Course Coordinator to discuss the impact of your injury or temporary condition and what support can be offered. Where you may need an extended break to recover, your Adviser of Studies or Course Coordinator may encourage you to consider an Interruption of Studies.

If your injury or illness carries on beyond the expected recovery time, is especially severe in nature, and/or is likely to have continued lasting effects, complete a Study Support Request so that we can advise you further. Or, if you are uncertain how to get help, or if the Disability Service is for you, come to a drop-in.