New group to support disabled university students

A new group will examine the barriers faced by disabled students at university and improve support for them.

The new Disabled Students’ Commission, which is being developed by the Office for Students, will help to identify and promote good practice which helps those with disabilities have a positive experience at university.

The Commission, formerly Disabled Students’ Sector Leadership Group (DSSLG), will use the DSSLG’s existing guidance for providers on supporting disabled students inclusively and look at what more needs to be done.

The Minister is also encouraging institutions to make sure their access and participation plans, being submitted to the OfS this summer to implement in 2020-21, include actions that set out how they will improve equality of opportunity for students from all backgrounds – ensuring disabled students are carefully considered within their plans.

The group of expert commissioners will include appointments from the sector, students and employers, and will offer independent advice to the Government and the OfS on issues affecting disabled students.