Disabled Students' Allowance

Student Support provides confidential information, guidance and practical support to students who have a disability or specific learning difference.

Funding for learning support for UK students at university is provided by the UK Government through DSAs (Disabled Students' Allowances). Bath Spa recommends that all eligible students apply for a DSA when they apply for Student Finance.

A DSA is a non-means tested allowance that can pay for extra costs incurred by UK disabled university students as a result of their disability; dyslexia, dyspraxia, Asperger Syndrome, a mental health or medical condition, sensory or mobility impairment . the DSA may provide study skills tuition or specialist equipment.

You are strongly advised to apply as early as possible.

If you live in:

• England: https://www.gov.uk/disabled-students-allowances-dsa
• Wales: www.studentfinancewales.co.uk
• Scotland: http://www.saas.gov.uk/student_support/special_circumstances/disabled_students_allowance.htm
• Northern Ireland: www.studentfinanceni.co.uk

You’ll find detailed information in the guide to DSAs,

To qualify for a DSA, you must provide written evidence of a long- term impairment, mental health issue or learning difficulty which has an impact on your capacity to study effectively. We can help you with your DSA application and advise you on whether the evidence you have meets the required criteria.

If you decide to come to Bath Spa University, please send your evidence to Student Support, with a copy of your DSA Study Needs Assessment report, if you have one.

DSA Needs Assessment?

Students who complete a DSA application will be referred to an accredited Assessment Centre for a Study Needs Assessment.

The Bath Spa Regional DSA Assessment Centre, which assesses students for DSAs, is located on the Newton Park campus.

If you do not live near Bath, see www.dsa-qag.org.uk for the location of your nearest centre and for further information.

Personal Care

The DSA does not pay for personal care. If you use a personal assistant, receive care from a friend or family member or receive Disabled Living Allowance (DLA), you must tell your local Social Services and/or care providers as early as possible that you intend to come to university. Your personal needs may change and have to be reassessed by Bath & N.E. Somerset Social Services, especially if you will be living independently for the first time in Bath. There may be a waiting list for assessment and it is essential that all arrangements are in place before you arrive.

If you are in receipt of DLA, it is likely your entitlement will continue as a student and may mean you are able to apply for Housing Benefit to help pay for your accommodation costs while a student, please contact Student Support (studentsupport@bathspa.ac.uk) for advice.

For further information and advice, contact Bath & North East Somerset Council on:

councilconnect@bathnes.gov.uk.

Telephone: (01225) 394041.

Mobile Phone SMS Text: 07797 806545.

Specialist equipment available at Bath Spa University includes a hearing loop system, specialist computer software, ergonomic chairs and a motorised scooter.

EU & International Students

You may be entitled to support from your home education department and should make enquiries about what’s available before you come to university.

Student Support will be pleased to speak to any applicant who does not qualify for a DSA or other government support to discuss how we can support their study at Bath Spa University. Please contact us as soon as you decide to go to university.

Bath Spa Regional Assessment Centre

The fully equipped, DSA-QAG accredited Bath Spa Regional Assessment Centre will carry out an Assessment of Need for students who are eligible for the Disabled Students Allowance. A team of qualified assessors and disability specialists work collaboratively with students and the Student Support team at Bath Spa University to deliver an efficient and professional service. The Assessment Centre is based on the Newton Park Campus at Bath Spa University.

Once you receive confirmation to attend a Needs Assessment, you can book an appointment by phoning Contact Associates on 01823 352749 or emailing them at admin@contact-associates.co.uk