What support can I get?

Whether you’re an undergraduate or postgraduate student; Home, EU or International student, our Information, Advice, Adjustments and Guidance is individually tailored to help you access the most effective support.

If you are unsure whether or not our service can support you, please contact us at disability@kingston.ac.uk or by calling 0208 417 6000 (Option 2) for our Information Centre.

Background

The support needs of every student are different, and the kinds of support we offer depends on a student’s individual circumstances including their disability and their course of study. Not all the support options below are appropriate for all disabled students. Likewise, additional arrangements may be available to students with more complex or specific needs.

Inclusive Curriculum Framework

Our Inclusive Curriculum Framework promotes a universal approach to course design intended to improve the experience, skills and attainment of all students. The purpose of an Inclusive Curriculum Framework is one where learning activities and assessments are designed flexibly where possible to account for different learning styles and needs. Inclusive Learning and Teaching Practices are also built into delivery e.g. recording of classes, lecture notes being provided in advance, reading lists etc.

Summary of Support Needs Document (SoSN)

A SoSN will summarise your diagnosis, its impact to you and the recommend adjustments tailored to your individual needs. This will be available on OSIS once you are enrolled and registered with the Disability and Mental Health Service.

Accommodation Support

We can offer different types of support and adjustments for disabled students living in our University halls of residence. Please note that we are unable to guarantee accommodation for any students and accommodation is prioritised for students in their first year of study or who cannot live in the private sector due to their disability e.g. accessing adapted accommodation.

Screenings and Assessments for Specific Learning Differences (SpLDs)

Fully enrolled students who are having difficulties with their studies and think it may be due to an undiagnosed SpLD can receive a free screening and partially-funded assessment where eligibility criteria is met through the Disability and Mental Health Service.

  • We cannot offer screenings or assessments for Autism or ADHD. Students should contact their GP in the first instance should they wish to pursue this.
  • We cannot fund assessments if you already hold acceptable evidence for an SpLD.
  • We cannot fund a diagnostic assessment for specific learning differences if you are within the last 4 months prior to the end of your current course.
  • We cannot provide a screening or fund an assessment if you are on an interruption of study or not yet enrolled on your course.

You can request a screening for an SpLD in order to start this process by emailing disability@kingston.ac.uk. Current students can request this through the StudentHub.

Additional exam arrangements

These are reasonable adjustments that increase equity and accessibility in examinations. We endeavour as far as possible to ‘level the playing field’ for disabled students. Advisors in the team can recommend a variety of exam and assessment support.

Exam adjustments outlined in evidence or put in place before attending Kingston University may not be replicated. This is to ensure equity. Different countries and/or Higher Education Institutions may have different standards. It also ensures that you have access to the most appropriate support and adjustments for studying at university. Common Exam Adjustments may include:

  • Extra time
  • The use of a computer
  • Rest breaks

You are responsible for following the steps outlined on our How do I get support page to receive a Summary of Support Needs (SoSN). You will receive exam adjustments if your SoSN is in place before the deadline for each exam period and outlines any recommended exam adjustments.

Non-Medical Helper (NMH) support (Human support)

Students requiring disability-related support from a Non-Medical Helper can discuss their requirements with us. This covers a diverse range of staff, including:

  • Laboratory Assistants
  • Notetaking
  • Practical/Library assistants
  • British Sign Language Interpreters
  • Orientation/Study Assistant Support

If you think you may need support from a Non-Medical Helper, you should arrange an appointment with the Disability and Mental Health Service. We will discuss the difficulties you are experiencing and advise on any appropriate support that can be put in place for you. We can usually put this in place quickly provided we have the appropriate relevant evidence.

Please note that Non-medical support is provided externally to Kingston University and is not subject-specific support. Non-medical helpers are not the same as personal carers/personal assistants.

Personal care support

Personal care support refers to any practical help or assistance you require for daily life, regardless of student status – in other words, non-study related activities or tasks such as:

  • getting up, going to bed, or adjusting position overnight (and during the day)
  • washing/bathing and getting dressed
  • help with eating or taking medication
  • using the toilet
  • domestic activities – cleaning your living area, shopping, preparing meals
  • leisure or extra-curricular activities
  • driving or helping you to get around outside study hours

The University does not provide funding for personal care or medical treatment (including medication, medical supplies or mobility equipment) as this support would be required even if you were not a student and are not related to your studies. Travel costs to receive medical treatment are also your responsibility. If this support is required, we recommend that you contact your Local Authority in the first instance.

Library support

The library works closely with the Disability and Mental Health Service to deliver bespoke support. This includes:

  • longer book loans
  • book fetching
  • accessible textbooks
  • access to assistive technology PCs

To arrange this support, please make an appointment with us. We will discuss the difficulties you are experiencing with your studies and will work with yourself and the Library to arrange any recommended support.

Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSAs)

Disabled Students who are living in the UK (i.e. ‘home’ students) can apply to Student Finance England or their relevant funding body for the Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSAs). The DSA will pay for any extra disability-related study costs arising from your studies.

DSAs are not means-tested and do not need to be paid back. You can apply for DSAs at any time during your course, but we strongly recommend you do so as soon as possible as the whole process can take up to 3 months. You can apply for DSA when you apply for student finance.

Who is eligible?

If you have a disability, including mental health difficulties and other unseen disabilities, such as dyslexia or a medical condition, you may be eligible for DSAs. You will be asked to provide proof of your disability or impairment (e.g. a diagnostic assessment report, or a letter from a qualified medical practitioner ) and you will be invited to attend a needs assessment with a specialist assessor once your application has been approved.

What support is available?

The support you get depends on individual need but can include funding for specialist equipment (students must contribute the first £200 towards laptops or computers if either is recommended), taxi allowances, non-medical help and printing and other general allowances.

For further information, visit the government’s DSA website.

If you are not eligible for DSA (including individuals on apprenticeship courses or international students), please contact us to discuss what support we may be able to provide for you.

Counselling and Wellbeing Support

The Student Counselling and Wellbeing team offers a range of services to support you during your time at Kingston University including:

  • self-help guides
  • counselling
  • drop-in sessions
  • listening sessions
  • stress management

To register with the Counselling and Wellbeing Service, please email health@kingston.ac.uk

How could this affect me?

Getting used to life as a University student can be a challenge for anyone, it is important to know that there is support, information and resources available if you need them. Talking to us about the support available, any questions or concerns you have, and visiting campus, might help you make a decision whether you want to study with us, and ensure you have the best possible university experience if you do.

What to do next?

Contact Disability and Mental Health Service to find out more about the support available at Kingston University

Practical tips

Where possible we would suggest you contact our Disability and Mental Health Service as soon you have an offer of a place, even if you haven’t decided that you are definitely studying with us. This will give us plenty of time to talk about your support, give you an opportunity to look around our campus and ensure any support is in place for when you start.