University of Greater Manchester
Deane Road, Bolton, BL3 5AB.
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It’s understandable to feel uncertain about disclosing a disability, especially when it comes to navigating the academic environment. Ultimately, the decision to disclose is a personal one, and you should only share what feels right for you. That said, there are many benefits to disclosure which can open doors to reasonable adjustments and additional support for your programme. Remember that your disability-related information will always be kept confidential and shared only with those who need to know in order to provide you with support.
You are disabled under the Equality Act 2010 if you have a physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long term’ negative effect on your ability to do normal daily activity. If you’re unsure whether or not we can support you, book an appointment with a disability advisor to discuss your medical evidence and potential support.
If you do not have evidence, please discuss this with a disability advisor. The Disability Service can provide a disability evidence form that your GP or other medical professionals can complete to confirm your diagnosis. Similarly, if you suspect you have a condition or have a working diagnosis*, please get in touch with the Disability Service to discuss potential support available to you.
* A suspected condition is based on an individual’s suspicions that trigger a formal evaluation process. A working diagnosis is a term used by medical professionals for a tentative diagnosis based on current symptoms, tests, and observations that may be awaiting full assessment results.
Disabled students can register with the Disability Service during the application process, upon enrolment or at any point during their programme. You can register by filling out this form
If you suspect you might have specific learning difficulties, such as dyslexia or dyspraxia, or neurodivergent conditions, such as ADHD or autism, you can get screened at the university. Please see further information on our diagnostic assessments here.
Personal care support for activities such as shopping, cooking, washing or bathing, going to the toilet, or getting dressed, is not funded by the university. You can apply for a needs assessment by social services to get this type of support. Your local NHS service, Citizens Advice Bureau or some charities such as Scope might be able to help you apply for a needs assessment.
We are only able to support students who are disabled as defined by the Equality Act 2010. If you have a short-term illness that lasts or is likely to last less than one year, then you should contact your School. They will liaise with the Facilities and Health and Safety team to discuss potential support for you.
The Disability Service does not manage mitigating circumstances applications, but your programme tutors can provide advice and guidance on this process. You can find information on the mitigating circumstances policy and procedure here. You may also want to read the academic appeals or complaint procedures if you think you have grounds for a complaint or appeal. The Students’ Union can help you with the complaint or appeal process.
The Disability Service cannot put adjustments in place for your placement as we can only advise on adjustments for the academic environment. We strongly encourage you to disclose your disability to your placement provider. They may be able to refer you to Occupational Health who can further advise and recommend support for you in the workplace.
The Disability Service does not manage accessibility arrangements at your accommodation. The university’s recommended accommodation provider is Orlando Village. You will need to contact them directly to discuss any accessibility support or arrangements you may require.
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