Starting university represents a significant transition. For students with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or mental health challenges, this transition can present additional complexities, particularly if appropriate support is not in place.
Fortunately, under the Equality Act 2010, universities are legally required to provide reasonable adjustments to ensure that all students can access education equitably. As such, if any physical feature of an organisation’s / service provider’s premises, or other arrangements, causes a substantial disadvantage then the provider is under a statutory duty to make reasonable adjustments to prevent it, (i.e. altering premises or offering assistance). An organisation / service provider is under a duty when they are aware, or should be aware, that a student has a disability and are likely to suffer a disadvantage because of it.
What are reasonable adjustments?
Reasonable adjustments are modifications or forms of support put in place to reduce or remove disadvantages faced by disabled students. Their purpose is to ensure all students can fully participate in academic and campus life on an equal footing.
Examples of reasonable adjustments may include:
- Additional time during examinations
- Assistive technology or specialist software
- Lecture materials in accessible formats
- Modified student accommodation (e.g. step-free access, en-suite bathrooms, or medication storage facilities)
- Flexible deadlines or attendance policies
Before starting university
Planning ahead can significantly improve the university experience. The following steps will help to ensure that support is in place from the outset:
1. Disclose a disability early
When applying through UCAS, indicate your disability by selecting the appropriate option.
After accepting your university offer, contact the university’s Disability Support or Inclusion Team directly and submit ECHP documents as soon as is possible.
Early disclosure enables the university to begin preparations and implement support in time for the commencement of studies, where available.
2. Provide medical or supporting evidence
Evidence may include a GP’s letter, an Educational Psychologist’s report, or documentation from a medical specialist.
Check with the university’s Disability Service to understand their specific evidence requirements.
3. Develop a disability support plan (also known as a study support plan or learning support plan)
This plan outlines the reasonable adjustments that are agreed with the University and as such, you are entitled to receive.
It is shared with relevant staff (e.g. lecturers, academic tutors, examinations officers) on a need-to-know basis.
4. Apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)
DSA can fund specialist equipment, non-medical helpers, and additional support not provided directly by the university.
Apply as early as possible via Student Finance (for England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland).
5. Review accommodation options
Notify the university of any specific accommodation needs early (e.g. wheelchair accessibility, proximity to teaching buildings, sensory-friendly environments).
Request written confirmation that your accommodation requirements will be met.
If things don’t go as planned
Despite careful preparation, issues may arise. If you believe that agreed adjustments are not being implemented or that the support is inadequate, please contact our specialist discrimination law team on 0161 696 6170.
Blog author: Kruti Vyas
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