Disability and learning difficulty support

The Manchester College promotes an inclusive learning environment for all students.

We have a dedicated HE Specialist Support Advisory team who can discuss your support needs or concerns in confidence. They will also help you access the necessary support you require on your course.

If you have a disability, mental health condition (for example, depression or anxiety) or specific learning difficulties (for example, dyslexia or dyspraxia) then you may be eligible for extra help in the form of Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSAs).

The DSA helps pay for extra support or specialist equipment that you may need on your course due to your disability, mental-health condition or specific learning difficulty.

If you would like further information about applying for DSAs you may find it useful to read the following publication(s):-

  • Bridging the Gap
  • Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSAs)- Helping you study in higher education are both available from the government's student finance pages
  • Applying for Disabled Students' Allowances available at:-Skill:National Bureau for Students with Disabilities http://www.skills.org/

Our HE Specialist Support Advisory Team can

  • Arrange a one to one meeting to discuss your support needs
  • Support you through the process of completing the DSA application form
  • Help with booking your Needs Assessment appointment
  • Liaise with Student Finance England on your behalf if you have any queries
  • Liaise with your course tutor to draw up an Individual Personal Learning Plan (PLP)
  • Arrange a diagnostic assessment
  • provide some interim support and technological support whilst your DSA is being finalised

The process for applying for DSA can be lengthy and we encourage learners to apply as early as possible. You can apply for DSA as soon as you have decided on the HE course you wish to study.

DSAs’ application forms are available from:-

www.direct.gov.uk

Or contact the dsa team at:-

dsa@themanchestercollege.ac.uk who will help and support you through the application process.