We offer a range of specialist services to support students with disabilities, long-term conditions and mental health needs.
- Accessibility and disability support
- Accessibility advisors
- Assistive technology and study support
- Specialist mentoring
- Diagnostic assessments for dyslexia and learning difficulties
- Support workers and communication support
- Mental health support
Accessibility and disability support
We offer a range of specialist services to support students with disabilities, long-term health conditions and mental health needs.
Our support can help you access your studies, develop independent learning skills and make the most of university life.
Accessibility advisors
Accessibility advisers can help arrange reasonable adjustments and personalised support for your studies.
We recommend contacting an adviser before your course starts or as soon as you register.
Find out more about:
Assistive technology and study support
We provide access to assistive technology and specialist equipment to support your learning.
Available equipment may include:
- Digital voice recorders
- Specialist software
- Magnifiers
- Hearing radio aids
- Livescribe pens
- Reading pens
- Ergonomic keyboards and mice
If there is a delay in receiving equipment through the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA), you may be able to borrow equipment on a short-term basis.
If you are not eligible for DSA, Student Wellbeing may be able to provide loan equipment.
Find out more about the DSA Computer Equipment Grant.
Specialist mentoring
Specialist mentors can support students with:
- Autism spectrum conditions
- Asperger's syndrome
- Mental health difficulties
Your mentor can help you:
- Develop study strategies
- Build independent learning skills
- Manage university life
Mentoring is usually arranged through a DSA needs assessment.
If you do not receive DSA but think mentoring would benefit you, speak to your accessibility adviser.
Diagnostic assessments for dyslexia and learning difficulties
We offer diagnostic assessments for specific learning difficulties, including:
- Dyslexia
- Dyspraxia
- Non-verbal learning difficulties
A diagnostic assessment is required if you are applying for DSA for a specific learning difficulty.
Your assessment will:
- Identify your strengths and support needs
- Recommend strategies and support for your studies
If you think you may have ADHD or ADD, you should speak to your GP about diagnosis.
Support workers and communication support
We can arrange specialist support workers, including:
- British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters
- Specialist notetakers
- Communication support workers
To discuss available support, contact your accessibility adviser.
Mental health support
We support students with a range of mental health needs, whether they are short term or ongoing.
You do not need a formal diagnosis to access support.
Our team can help if you:
- Are experiencing mental health difficulties for the first time
- Have an existing mental health condition
- Need support managing your wellbeing during your studies
If you're not sure what support is right for you, get in touch and we'll help you find the most appropriate service.
Email: studentwellbeing@herts.ac.uk