There are no national procedures or conditions however, in order for a disabled student to receive support required to undertake their course, they will receive a Needs Assessment undertaken by a qualified individual appointed by their university. This will assess the individual needs of the student, taking into account their disability. It will also assess the type of support and/or equipment needed for the study to undertake their studies, and also what reasonable adjustments could be made to facilitate this.
In order to apply for Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) from Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS), students will receive a Needs Assessment (referenced above) which will provide evidence to support their DSA claim. The student is also required to obtain diagnostic evidence to confirm their circumstances, including details of their disability.
The public sector Equality Duty came into effect across the UK in 2011. It means that public bodies, including colleges and universities, have to consider all individuals when carrying out their day-to-day work – in shaping policy, in delivering services and in relation to their own employees.
It also requires that public bodies have due regard to the need to:
- eliminate discrimination
- advance equality of opportunity
- foster good relations between different people when carrying out their activities.
Colleges and universities should therefore continually anticipate and address the general requirements of disabled people with a wide range of impairments and health conditions (e.g. ensure that facilities have appropriate wheelchair access for staff and students).