A brief guide to support for students with communication difficulties...

Typical difficulties at University might include:-

• Participating in seminars / tutorials / groupwork

Appropriate Reasonable Adjustments might include:-

• Training for staff and students in being an effective communication partner for the student
• Modifications to assessment protocols

Support/resources available via Access SUMMIT might include:-

• Assessment of Needs undertaken by assessor experienced in communication difficulties - in conjunction with The ACE Centre North if appropriate
• Support package including:-
  • Communication aid to assist with spoken communication;
  • Communication facilitator/personal assistant;
  • Training to make sure you make best use of the equipment you have;
  • Ongoing Assistive Technology Support to make sure your equipment continues to give you the support you need throughout your course.

Getting the support you need:-

• Support packages are individually tailored and so the first step in making sure you get what you need will be to contact an adviser at your University's Disability Support Service; see the contact details for the Greater Manchester Universities Disability Support Services here.

Funding the support you need:-

• Most UK students will qualify for funding via The Disabled Students Allowances - see our brief guide to funding and www.direct.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople/EducationAndTraining/HigherEducation/DG_10034898 for more information about the Disabled Students Allowances.