We have used a rigorous process of roundtables, research studies, focus groups, surveys, and discussions. There are many committed staff who support disabled students and many examples of innovative practice across the sector but unfortunately, typically there is not a holistic approach across the institution led by a senior leader as a driver of change.
Since our inception, we have looked at the evidence presented to us and clearly taken the view that whilst disabled students do remarkably well, too often it is against the odds. The sector needs to make a quantum shift in the way it supports this group of students.
Calls for step-change in the way disabled students access and experience higher education
Consequently, we have developed this Disabled Student Commitment.
The Commitment encourages HEPs and other organisations to look holistically at their practices and policies, influencing their fulfilment of the Commitment in consultation with disabled students. Secondly, HEPs and other organisations were encouraged to outline how they intend to enhance experiences.
Please email dsc@advance-he.ac.uk for any inquiries related to the commitments.
Aim/Objective
The purpose of the Disabled Student Commitment (the Commitment) is to secure an enhanced and improved experience for disabled students within higher education.
Disabled Student Commitment
The purpose of the Disabled Student Commitment (the Commitment) is to secure an enhanced and improved experience for disabled students within higher education. The Disabled Students’ Commission (DSC) calls upon higher education providers (HEPs), Government, funders, agencies, regulators and professional, statutory and regulatory bodies (henceforth referred to as other organisations) to adopt and promote the Commitment.
The Commitment does not seek to replicate or replace legal duties but asks organisations to do more by focusing on how they can improve the disabled student experience. This version is finalised based on responses from our consultation and mirrors the existing principles.
The Disabled Student Commitment Members
List of universities, colleges, sector bodies and other relevant organisations who have signed up to the Disabled Student Commitment.
To register your interest, you can either sign up by filling out the form here or directly by sending an email to dsc@advance-he.ac.uk, containing a signed letter from your Vice-Chancellor or equivalent member of staff written clearly outlining the following.
Disabled Student Commitment: formal consultation response
The consultation is to have a better understanding from your side to use the wording clearer in the sector. Following the conclusion of a formal consultation with the sector on the Commitment, the Disabled Students' Commission has released a formal response to the results of the survey.
