15 October 2009

City universities launch disability outreach project

The University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University have launched a unique disability outreach scheme which aims to raise the aspirations and motivation of potential disabled learners in Higher Education.

The project, which is funded by Aimhigher South Yorkshire, aims to work with schools, colleges and community groups in the region to provide information, advice and guidance to potential disabled students. It will aim to ensure that these students are informed about access and support available whilst studying for a degree, to make the transition to university life as smooth as possible.

The scheme was launched by a special event yesterday (14 October 2009) which saw future students, parents, teachers and support workers visit Sheffield Hallam University to meet with students who currently receive support at university and take part in a question and answer session to help prepare students for life at university.

Louise Loughlin, from the Disability and Dyslexia Support Service, at the University of Sheffield, said: "We know that students who receive support at university perform better in Higher Education, than those who don´t. We hope this outreach scheme will encourage potential disabled students to disclose their difficulty early in the application process, so that necessary support can be arranged upon their arrival at university. Making the transition to university can be a daunting process, but by making students fully aware of the support available, we hope to provide the reassurance and the confidence needed to make that transition easier."

Vicki Jackson, Head of Sheffield Regional Assessment Centre at Sheffield Hallam, said: "It's difficult for disabled students to know about the range of support available at university, added to which, the process of getting funding via Disabled Students Allowances can be quite complex. It's great for us to have the opportunity to run events that can really make a difference and help to ensure students can be properly supported from the beginning of their courses."

Notes for Editors: For more information, please visit:

Disability and Dyslexia Support Service

For further information please contact: Lauren Anderson, Media Relations Officer, on 0114 2221046 or email l.h.anderson@sheffield.ac.uk

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