When a student needs help with a disability, dyslexia or a long term medical condition

What should you be aware of?

At Middlesex University we aim to provide an inclusive teaching and learning environment which caters for all students. The Disability and Dyslexia Support (DDS) service provides advice and support to students on a range of issues, including Autistic Spectrum Disorder and Asperger Syndrome, physical difficulties, ongoing medical conditions, sensory impairment, mental health conditions or specific learning difficulties, for example dyslexia or dyspraxia. It is vital to be aware of the following when referring students to DDS:

— students who have been diagnosed and/or are aware of their disability prior to admission.

— students whose circumstances change during their studies and require additional assistance.

— students who are unaware that they may have a disability, dyslexia or a long term medical condition (either physical or mental health issues).

Look out for students, including returning students continuing their academic studies, who have a physical disability, mental health issues, regularly submit work late, struggle with written elements of the course, display perfectionist tendencies, or frustration at the results they are receiving, as they could benefit from additional support. In addition, if a student asks for further support in travelling to and from the University (for example, on-site parking), refer to DDS.

What should you do?

Ask the student to contact DDS

Where can the DDS be found?

Sunny Hill House (Hendon Campus)
Access via Greyhound Hill or Williams Building car park.
(Please see campus map on p75)

Telephone: 020 8411 2502
Email: disability@mdx.ac.uk
Website: http://unihub.mdx.ac.uk/support/disability-and-dyslexia

If a student’s Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) has been approved, ask the student to contact the North London Regional Access Centre (NLRAC) for a Study Needs Assessment (see page 29).

Where can the NLRAC be found?

The Access Centre (NLRAC) is located on the Lower Ground floor of the Sheppard Library, opposite the Circle Café.

Telephone: 020 8411 5366
Email: adminac@mdx.ac.uk

What happens next?

The student will make an appointment with a Disability and Dyslexia Advisor who will assess the student’s needs and make any necessary recommendations for reasonable adjustments to be put in place. For example special provision during exams (e.g. scribes), graduation ceremonies, course related study advice, liaising with tutors and funding authorities.

The Sheppard Library is fully accessible and staff can provide both practical support and advice on equipment available within the Library for disabled students.

When a student has successfully registered for a Disability Support package, academic staff will usually be notified of the agreed support via a Learning Support Form (LSF). An exception to this is when students request that details of their Disability Support package are not disclosed to staff members; then Academic staff will not receive an LSF or any other notification that support has been agreed.

Policy Information: http://www.mdx.ac.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0022/414229/LTC16-56-paper-student-disabilitypolicy-FINAL.pdf

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