How do I get my study needs assessed?

Jackie Webster (DSA Awards Officer): The way we find out what you need from a Disabled Students' Allowance is by referring you for a Needs Assessment. Now it is only looking at your study-related needs. They will be at local centres but if you're unable to get to a local centre we can arrange to have it done in your own home.

Colin Beesley (DSA Awards Officer): Now it's nothing to worry about. I know that it can sound quite intimidating, but it's not a medical assessment it's more of an opportunity for you to sit and have a chat with an expert about the ways in which we can help you.

Access Centre Assessor: Roy, do you actually have any difficulties with producing your written work, like for example, your course assignments or exam answers?

Man: I would find that difficult because I don't see the letters very well.

Access Centre Assessor: This is a large print keyboard. As you can see the letters are black on a white background which allows them to stand out more and for you to see them clearer. So what do you think?

Access Centre Assessor: I would find the large keys betterbecause I can see the letters clearer.

Colin Beesley (DSA Awards Officer): There's a huge range of equipment available and the assessor is in a position to find out what suits you best and what's going to enable you to study to the very best of your abilities. And once the report is produced it will be forwarded to us in the office to then make a final decision about what equipment is approved or not as the case may be.

Jackie Webster (DSA Awards Officer): Most students find this experience to be very positive. They are unaware of the support and the technology that is available to help them with their studies and often are amazed at what help they can get.

Man: I am so thrilled with all the wonderful things you have given me to help with my degree

Man: Everything is now installed and is brilliant!

Man: Without your support I'm not sure how things would have worked out. It really has made a huge difference to how I have coped with the study workload.

Colin Beesley (DSA Awards Officer): Your study needs: Your study needs will be assessed at an independent assessment centre or in your own home. The assessor's report will recommend the items and services that you need.