In this guide we will talk you through some of the main questions asked by students seeking disability support. It doesn’t matter if you are new to the University or you have been studying here for years, it is never too late to ask for help or advice. If you don’t find the answer to your question below, please feel free to get in touch with the Disability Service to find out more. The best way to make contact with them is via the University of Glasgow Disability Service webpage. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. Registration with Disability Services is simple, straightforward, and they will support you every step of the way.

Q1 – If you are new to the University of Glasgow and you have a disability, what is the first thing you should do to seek support?

Please email disability@glasgow.ac.uk with the following documents:

  1. Your evidence of disability from a medical practitioner or psychologist (you can still register if you are in the process of being assessed/diagnosed. You can also meet with an Adviser if you are having difficulty obtaining medical evidence or wish to discuss what medical evidence medical evidence is required.
  2. Disability Service Registration Form
  3. Disability Service Consent Form

Q2 – If you are unsure about whether you have a disability what should you do?

Contact the Disability Service at disability@glasgow.ac.uk. Many people who do not see themselves as being ‘disabled’, meet the criteria for support under the definition of disability. We offer support to students with various disabilities, medical conditions, learning differences and mental health difficulties. If the Disability Service is not appropriate for you, we can signpost you to other relevant departments and supports throughout the university.

Q3 – Once you have made contact with the disability service, what are the steps you will normally go through to get support?

You will be offered an initial appointment with a Disability Adviser (face to face or online appointments are available).  This involves identifying any barriers or areas of concern on your course in relation to your condition and identifying appropriate provisions or adjustments. Once agreed, these support provisions are communicated to relevant staff across the university.

In some cases the Disability Service can help you to apply for non-means tested funding (Disabled Students Allowances – known as ‘DSA’) to cover any extra costs that you may incur as a direct result of your disability. 

Q4 – What kinds of support is the University able to offer to students with disabilities?

We are able to offer a wide range of support to students and are aware that every student will have specific requirements. The needs of many students can be met through adjustments to teaching and exam arrangements and use of on-campus assistive technology. This might include accessible teaching venues, extra time in exams or other assessments, use of a computer, flexibility with deadlines and library support. We will work with every student to ensure they get a package of support specific to their needs.

Some students may require additional funded support via Disabled Students Allowances. Examples include equipment or technology such as specialist software or recording devices. It may also include one-to-one support from a study skills tutor, mental health mentor or proof reader.

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First published: 5 October 2022

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