University of Stirling Disability Statement

Disability at Stirling University Information for Students2006/2007This guide is also available and updated annually, on the Student Support Services Website. If you have any queries or if you require this Booklet or any of the information contained in this guide in a particular format e.g. Braille, large print, by e-mail or suitable for scanning, please contact:Information and Advice Student Support Services 4Y Cottrell Building University of Stirling Stirling FK9 4LATel: 01786 467080 Fax: 01786 466806 Email: [email protected] Website: www.student-support.stir.ac.uk2 CONTENTS1 INTRODUCTION2 APPLYING FOR A PLACE AT STIRLING?2.1 Who Should I Contact Initially? 2.2 Pre-entry Visit 2.3 Should I Disclose My Disability? 2.4 University Policy on Disability Disclosure and Confidentiality3 SUPPORTING YOUR ACADEMIC NEEDS3.1 Disability/Dyslexia Adviser: Initial Assessment of Needs 3.2 Special IT Needs Adviser: Further Assessment of Needs 3.3 Assistive Technologies Training 3.4 On-campus IT Systems And Equipment 3.5 Exam and Coursework Adjustments 3.6 Students Experiencing Mental Health Difficulties 3.7 Dyslexia Support 3.8 Dyslexia Screening & Assessment 3.9 Dyslexia Study Support 3.10 Library Support Services 3.11 Recording Lectures and Provision of Lecture Notes 3.12 PLA (Personal Learning Assistants) Programme 3.13 Communication Support 3.14 Student Learning Services: Study Skills Courses And Tutorials 3.15 Academic Advisory System and Unit Co-ordinators 3.16 Disabled Students Groups4 SUPPORTING YOUR LIVING OR PERSONAL NEEDS4.1 Physical Environment: University Campus 4.2 University Accommodation 4.3 Shopping And Local Facilities 4.4 Personal and Emotional Support5 FINANCIAL SUPPORT5.1 Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) 5.2 Benefits and Home Care Support 5.3 Hardship Funds and Childcare Care Funds 5.4 Charities and Trusts6 GENERAL AND WELLBEING ADVICE?3 6.1 Student Support Service 6.2 Career Development Centre 6.3 Stirling University Students Association (SUSA) 6.4 The Chaplaincy Centre7 WHAT OTHER SERVICES ARE PROVIDED ON CAMPUS?7.1 The Gannochy Sports Centre and the National Academy for Swimming 7.2 GP services and Airthrey Park Medical Centre8 OTHER THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT8.1 Your Safety 8.2 Disability Advisory Group 8.3 Staff Awareness 8.4 Other Issues9 USEFUL CONTACTS ON THE UNIVERSITY OF STIRLING CAMPUSES10 EXTERNAL PROVIDERS OF SUPPORT AND ADVICE10.1 Accessible Transport 10.2 Personal Care and Home Care 10.3 Dyslexia Advice and Support 10.4 Mental Health Services & Counselling 10.5 Other Disability Organisations11 FURTHER READING AND USEFUL RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS AND STAFF11.1 University of Stirling Resources 11.2 External Resources12 FEEDBACK AND COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE12.1 Complaints Procedure 12.2 Feedback Form4 1 INTRODUCTIONWe are pleased that you are considering studying at the University of Stirling. This booklet contains information about the services we can offer to you at the University as well as locally based sources of support external to the University.The University of Stirling aims to provide an atmosphere and range of services, which are both welcoming and supportive of the needs of all students. The University is firmly committed to providing the widest possible access to those wishing to study at the University by removing disabling barriers where possible and empowering disabled students to participate fully in university life. We try to achieve this aim through flexible methods of teaching and assessment, and by progressively improving access to buildings and technology.The University endeavours to ensure that its environment, provision and structures take into account, as far as possible, the full range of needs of students in a wide variety of circumstances including those with physical and mobility difficulties, sensory impairments, specific learning difficulties including dyslexia, medical conditions and mental health difficulties. Our service can also support students who have short-term or temporary mobility/dexterity impairment or other difficulty as a result of an accident, injury, illness or surgery.The full range of services described in this guide are offered to all undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as those on Access courses including both UK home students and international students. The information contained in this booklet is intended as a general guide to facilities for disabled students. More detailed information on access to specific courses and on facilities for people with specific impairments can be provided on request.5 Please do not hesitate to get in touch with Student Support Services if you would like to know more about any aspect of provision. All services and facilities described in the guide are provided free of charge.2 APPLYING FOR A PLACE AT STIRLING?The University of Stirling warmly welcomes applications from all prospective students regardless of any disability. The University’s policy is to view all applications, including those from disabled students, on the same academic grounds. Admissions decisions are made on the basis of academic achievement and, where relevant, after discussion of the applicant’s ability to undertake the required course elements.If you are interested in studying at Stirling you should first obtain a copy of the University Prospectus.  You can read the undergraduate prospectus online at: http://www.external.stir.ac.uk/undergrad/course_info/pr ospectus/index.php  or the postgraduate prospectus at: http://www.external.stir.ac.uk/postgrad/study- research/download-prospectus/index.php2.1 Who Should I Contact Initially?All prospective students will have contact with Student Recruitment and Admissions through the recruitment process. In addition we strongly urge that you make contact with Student Support Services if you require specific advice in relation to disability, health or dyslexia (see front cover for contact details).You should also get information from the relevant academic subject areas about specific courses. Student Support Services will be happy to liaise over pre-entry visits to enable you to6 assess the facilities and to discuss individual requirements (see section 2.2).2.2 Pre-Entry VisitPre-entry visits are open to all prospective disabled students. These specialist visits are in addition to the Advisory visits or open days available to all prospective students. For students with mobility or sensory impairments in particular, an early pre-entry visit is highly recommended. The Assistant Disability Adviser can arrange a specialist pre- entry visit and can provide information on facilities within the University and the local area, or help you to find any other assistance you need in relation to your studies. This can often involve working closely with key staff in the University including the Disability and/or Dyslexia Advisers as well as some external agencies. In addition, the Disability/Dyslexia Advisers can also offer a variety of advice to you throughout the application stage. 2.3 Should I Disclose My Disability?The University has no wish to put pressure on you to disclose although you are asked to consider carefully the advantages of making a disclosure. Where a disability is disclosed, the University will: Do all it can to arrange appropriate advice and provision Ensure that there is no discrimination of any kind, either in admissions practice or throughout your University CareerIt is helpful if the University knows in advance about your disability so that it may offer advice on what facilities and7 services are available; and so that you can assess whether the facilities are appropriate to your needs. For this reason, if you declare a disability either on the UCAS form or directly to the University, details are sent to Student Support Services, who will then send out further information and a voluntary ‘Initial Identification of Needs Form’. The answers you provide on the ‘Initial Identification of Needs Form’ will help us to start the process of ensuring that, wherever possible, your support needs can be met. Applicants returning the ‘Initial Identification of Needs Form’ in previous years have welcomed this positive approach.2.4 University Policy on Disability Disclosure and ConfidentialityThe University has an institution wide policy on confidentiality. Information about your support needs, in direct relation to any disability, will not be communicated to any other member of staff or student without your express consent. Frequently, for your academic or personal support needs to be met, specific information may have to be conveyed to other members of staff or external agencies. For this reason, you will be asked to sign a disclosure authorisation statement by the Disability Adviser/Dyslexia Adviser before any information is passed onto others and before support arrangements are put in place. Further information on the University’s policy statement on confidentiality can be obtained by following this link: http://www.guides.stir.ac.uk/dataprotectionguide.htm#Welfare3 SUPPORTING YOUR ACADEMIC AND LEARNING NEEDS8 The University will endeavour to meet your academic support needs, wherever possible, and has procedures and resources in place to serve this purpose. We aim to provide a high quality service for disabled students and are committed to making all possible reasonable adjustments to prevent disabled students from being placed at a substantial disadvantage. The University may not always be able to meet every individual’s need in every instance, therefore early contact with Student Support Services is recommended.In summary we can provide information and advice or make arrangements in the following areas: Study related assessment of needs Assistive technology and training in the use of this technology Exams Liaison with academic departments and unit co- ordinators Support workers or personal learning assistants Student Learning ServicesThe following sections describe each of the above in more details.9 3.1 Disability Adviser and Dyslexia Adviser: Initial Assessment of NeedsAs soon as possible, either prior to commencing your studies or on arrival, you are advised to make contact with either the Disability Adviser or Dyslexia Adviser as appropriate.An initial assessment of your academic needs will be carried out through discussion with you including your previous experiences or any previous support arrangements within an educational context and consideration of any supporting evidence. This discussion will identify any barriers there may be in the learning environment and ways these barriers can be eliminated or overcome. The findings from any discussions with the disability or dyslexia advisers will be recorded in an Agreed Learning Needs Assessment (ALNA) report, which will be stored in your confidential file held with Student Support Services.In addition, the ALNA report will also be summarised within an Agreed Record of University Arrangements and only with your express consent - may be used to inform relevant members of staff and/or external agencies of any agreed reasonable adjustments or support measures the University should make. Both the ALNA and ARUA, records the support that you can therefore expect to receive throughout your studies at the University of Stirling. A copy of your ALNA and ARUA, along with a full record of all support arrangements and associated correspondence will be retained by Student Support Services, and securely held in accordance with the University policy on confidentiality and the Data Protection Act: (http://www.guides.stir.ac.uk/dataprotectioncover.htm).You will be offered the opportunity to review your academic arrangements on a semesterly basis, or as required with the Disability or Dyslexia Adviser. 10 3.2 Special IT Needs Adviser: Further Assessment of NeedsFollowing on from the Initial Assessment of Needs – if you require access to assistive technology or exam arrangements, you will be referred for a further assessment with the Special IT Needs Adviser.The University offers an in-house IT Assessment Service for students using enabling technologies through the Special IT Needs Adviser. If you are a new student who want to make use of this service you should contact the Disability or Dyslexia Adviser in the first instance (see front cover for contact details). The IT assessment takes account of your individual needs; your academic study programme and the necessary University IT support issues. This approach aims to ensure that your study practices and the IT systems available in the University harmonise, as far as possible. This assessment will help you identify what IT equipment you will claim for through Disabled Students Allowance (see section 5.1)What is discussed and agreed at your meetings with the Special IT Needs Adviser will also be recorded in the ALNA and the ARUA (see section 3.1).Ongoing IT support and revision of exam arrangements is also available from the Special IT Needs Adviser.3.3 Assistive Technologies TrainingAfter you have completed the assessment process with the Special IT Needs Advisor, you may be referred to the Assistive Technologies Trainer for training in the use of any assistive technologies you will be using.The Assistive Technologies trainer will initially contact you with some general information about the ‘Learning Methodologies Programme’ and will invite you to along to an introductory11 session. It is recommended that you make an appointment with the Assistive Technologies Trainer even if the equipment recommended to you by the Special IT Needs adviser has not yet arrived. The assistive technologies software can be used at university in the meantime, and having completed the training, you will be ready and able to use your own equipment immediately on its arrival.  Introductory Session At the introductory session the Assistive Technologies Trainer will discuss with you the training recommended by the Special IT Needs Advisor. The trainer will give you an overview of the training and an indication of the time investment required from you. The training is tailored to suit your individual needs. The training manuals are examined and you are given an opportunity to decide whether you require all the training that has been recommended. If you are unsure, the trainer will ask you questions about your current study practices/computer use and encourages you to take the manuals away to be perused at your leisure. You may find that working through the training manual on your own is preferable. The trainer may make recommendations, but you decide your own priorities for learning and in what order you would like to receive your Assistive Technologies training.  The Learning Methodologies Programme The Learning Methodologies Programme (including assistive technologies) currently consists of training on the following: . Mini-disc recording equipment, Microphone, Infra-Red and Listening Post . XP Explorer . Word . Proofing tools (Spell checking, Auto correct & Oxford) . Dragon Naturally Speaking (Dictation/Speech Recognition) . Kurzweil 3000 (Scanning & Read back) . Mind Genius (Mind-mapping)These training sessions not only provide you with the knowledge on how to use the functions of the software or equipment but also how to get the most out of them in the context of your university study. The trainer works with you to12 identify learning outcomes and tangible, practical applications in your study practices.3.4 On-campus IT Systems and EquipmentThe University implements an IT integration policy to assist disabled students. Equipment available on campus includes the following: All central computer labs are fitted out with networked computers with full multimedia functionality, some on height-adjustable tables. As well as the mainstream software such as Office, Internet Explorer etc., machines have been configured (using JAWS) to be accessible to visually impaired students. Disabled students are able to create a personalised working environment profile, which follows the user from machine to machine; this allows for auto-correct entries, template and colour manipulation, and access to the Kurzweil 3000 read-back/proofing software. The Oxford English Dictionary and Thesaurus is also available and linked directly to Microsoft Word. A number of text scanners are available which use Kurzweil 1000 or 3000 Scan/Read software to convert good quality photocopies and books from text to speech which can be downloaded / imported onto almost any word processor or converted into Braille. All lecture theatres are fitted with ‘large area infrared’ systems. Some portable systems can be loaned to students before they obtain personal equipment. This equipment can be operated in any room.  In addition to our integrated IT policy, The Matthew Nelson Laboratory remains a dedicated computing facility located in the Murray Hall residence. It houses, on height adjustable tables, full range of IT equipment and emulates all central computer labs. Similarly 2A81 located in Cottrell Building offers a dedicated computing13 facility for disabled students. A programme is under way to increase the number of height adjustable tables available in all computing labs where specialised IT resources are situated.  There are two CCTVs with 37x magnification housed in room 2A81, Cottrell Building. There are three Library Carrels set-aside specifically for Visually Impaired students on the Stirling campus. They all have PC in them. The double carrel, Carrel 9 also has access to a scanner and printing facilities. This room is locked with the key available from the lending services desk in exchange for your student card. The other carrels, 11 and 12 are left open.While the University can provide an extensive range of enabling technology, it must be noted that lab provision is for structured classes, and therefore may not be available on a regular basis.3.5 Exam and Coursework AdjustmentsMost disabled students find that standard departmental and University arrangements for delivering the curriculum, for producing coursework and for sitting examinations are appropriate for them. However, some disabled students do find that additional adjustments are required, for example:  The production of examination papers in a alternative format  Separate accommodation for examinations  Use of IT facilities for examinations  Additional time to complete examinations  Respite breaks during the course of examinations  Meeting dietary needs during examinations  Use of voice activated software for dictation of examination answersIf you wish to apply for exam and coursework adjustments you should seek advice from the Disability or Dyslexia Adviser in14 the first instance. The Adviser will then ensure that appropriate liaison takes place between you and the various support agencies within the University to put appropriate exam and coursework adjustments in place. For more information please refer to: www.ifs.stir.ac.uk/academic/alnafs/alnafs-home.php3.6 Students Experiencing Mental Health DifficultiesThe University recognises that you may experience mental health difficulties, which may affect your ability to study to varying degrees depending on the severity of the condition. The term ‘Mental Health Difficulties’ is used to encompass a wide range of impairments, the most common of which are depression and acute anxiety disorders. Accordingly, the University has developed University Guidelines on Mental Health, which address various aspects of mental health including: the factors which impact on mental health; possible preventative measures; recognition of possible symptoms of mental health difficulties; and in cases of concern, or in crisis situations, advice on appropriate action. The Guidelines are available on the University website at: www.quality.stir.ac.uk/disability/mh-guidelines.php If you experience mental health difficulties, you are strongly advised to seek appropriate professional advice (e.g. by consulting a student counsellor or GP). In addition, a number of services may be able to offer support to you should you choose to seek it e.g. Student Support Services (including the Disability Adviser and Counsellors), the welfare team within SUSA (see section 6.3), or the Chaplaincy (see section 6.4). The University will undertake to ensure the appropriate academic adjustments are made and that support is available to alleviate pressure on you if disclosing mental health difficulties. The University can grant appropriate academic concessions to individual students on a confidential basis, within the limits of University policy. If you wish to apply for15 exam and coursework arrangements on mental health grounds should contact the Disability Adviser (see front cover for contact details). 3.7 Dyslexia SupportIf you arrive at Stirling University and already know that you have a dyslexic condition or other Specific Learning Difficulty, you are advised to make an appointment with the Dyslexia Adviser. An assessment will be carried out to identify the type of support that would be most appropriate to meet your study needs in relation to your dyslexia. You will be advised who to contact within the university to help have these support needs put in place, most efficiently (see previous sections for details).3.8 Dyslexia Screening & AssessmentThe Dyslexia Adviser is able to offer a Screening Service for dyslexia and other specific learning difficulties. If you think that you may be experiencing features that may be dyslexia or have been told that you may benefit from a discussion with the Dyslexia Adviser, and then please feel free to come along for a Screening interview. In total confidence, the Dyslexia Adviser will help you to explore your actual experience of your learning difficulties. The Adviser will make no assumptions about the nature of your difficulties. This interview will conclude with a summation and evaluation of your features. The Dyslexia Adviser cannot tell you whether or not you have a dyslexia condition. However, the adviser can help you to decide whether or not you might benefit from an assessment with an Educational Psychologist, who can make a diagnosis of a dyslexia condition, or of another specific learning difficulty. The cost of the Dyslexia Assessment is currently met in full by the university. 16 It is appreciated that you may have particular concerns about both the screening and the assessment processes, and the implications of being formally assessed as dyslexic. Please note that the decision whether or not to proceed with the assessment rests with you. Also, when to undertake the assessment is your choice.The Dyslexia Adviser is happy to discuss any concerns in total confidence.3.9 Dyslexia Study Support Individual Study Support sessions for students with dyslexia can be arranged with the Dyslexia Adviser/Tutor through Student Support Services.These would normally be sessions lasting one hour, and can be booked as a one-off session, or more, depending on your requirements. Further information is available from the Dyslexia Adviser (see front cover for contact details. 3.10 Library Support ServicesAt Stirling University Library, staff at both the Information Desk and Lending Services are available to give you information or assistance.A lift allows those with mobility difficulties access to materials on all levels, and there is also a photocopier on a height adjustable table near to the main services desks. Staff at Lending Services will be happy to collect books or journals for you provided they are given reasonable notice. Students are encouraged to come and discuss any requirements or problems with Darren Matheson.If you have a visual impairment, Lending Services will need to know if you are registered with the RNIB to ensure that taped materials from their library can be accessed where relevant. If17 you are not registered this can be organised. Course materials can be made available in alternative formats e.g. on audiotape or in Braille etc. Requests should be discussed with the Darren Matheson who has specific responsibilities for disabled students. It is important that early notification of the course modules you will be taking is given to Darren to enable liaison with relevant Academic Departments for Course Handbooks, Reading lists etc. There are a wide range of Information Leaflets readily available detailing Library services, which can be made available in alternative formats.3.11 Recording Lectures and Provision of Lecture NotesThe University has a policy, which allows ALL students to record lectures, seminars and other teaching classes as required. Eligible students may be able to claim the cost of recording equipment from the Disabled Students Allowance (see section 5). When students require to audio record seminars or discussion classes, it may be helpful to explain to their fellow students the purpose of the recording. If students wish further advice on this policy, or on conveying information to their peers, they may contact Student Support Services or refer to website: www.quality.stir.ac.uk/ac-policy/Audio-Recording.php. For all course units, lecture notes and/or copies of handouts and OHP slides should be made available to all current students on WebCT.18 3.12 PLA (Personal Learning Assistants) ProgrammeWhilst every effort is made to enable all students to access their learning through the provision on assistive technology and the provision of course materials on WebCT, some students may require or prefer different support with their learning.Student Support Services maintains a register of Personal Learning Assistants (PLAs), who can provide assistance in a variety of support capacities including: Note taking and scribing for coursework  Reading and assistance with research and accessing library facilities  Photocopying and assistance with scanning materials  Access with mobility on campus and accessing facilitiesStudents may, in certain circumstances, use the services of a PLA as a complement, or as an alternative, to other support provisions and facilities at the University.Further information about the PLA programme is available on the Student Support Services Website. Students wishing to access this service should contact the Disability or Dyslexia Adviser in the first instance (see front cover for details).3.13 Communication SupportStudents who are Deaf or have a hearing impairment, and who require the services of a Communication Support Worker, should contact the Disability Adviser in the first instance. The University does not currently employ any Sign Language Interpreters; the Disability Adviser will instead assist students to access suitable provision through an external provider. 19 3.14 Student Learning Services: Study Skills Courses and TutorialsStudent Learning Services (SLS) is part of the Division of Academic Innovation and Continuing Education (DAICE), located in Airthrey Castle. SLS organises support for students who experience difficulties with their academic work. Credited courses in study skills are provided, as are one-off tutorial sessions.You can get more information about SLS from their website as detailed below. Once you are a matriculated student you can access support online through WebCT. The service is available to all registered students and although it does not cover specialised study requirements, some disabled students have found the courses of benefit. Airthrey Castle can be difficult to access at times therefore an alternative venue can be arranged on request.To get in touch SLS for the first time, please contact Lyana MacInnes as follows:Room 18, Airthrey Castle, Stirling Campus Tel: 01786 466142 Email: [email protected] Website:www.daice.stir.ac.uk/SLS/index.htm 3.15 Academic Advisory System and Unit Co- ordinatorsUnder the University’s current Advising scheme, all undergraduate and postgraduate students, both full time and part time, have access to one or more members of staff with formal responsibility for offering advice and guidance on academic matters and for providing information on support services organised within the University Community.Each department will have its own Advisory Team, where one of the members of this team will be the Departmental Disability20 Contact who will have specific responsibilities in supporting disabled students. You can read more about the Academic Advisory System in the Student Handbook, or on the University Website at: www.quality.stir.ac.uk/ad-study/handbook.phpIn addition every module you take as part of your degree programme will have a unit-co-ordinator who is also contactable concerning academic progress on specific modules.3.16 Disabled Students GroupsStirling University Disabled Student’s Group aims to achieve equality of opportunity for disabled people, through the removal of societal barriers and the education of negative and discriminatory attitudes. Further details are available on the SUSA website: www.susaonline.org.uk/societies/index.php?s=161Gesture is Stirling University’s society for deaf awareness and sign language. This group enables students (deaf or hearing) to come together to practice their sign language skills, mix socially and receive sign language tuition. Further details are available on the SUSA website: www.susaonline.org.uk/societies/index.php?s=146 21 4 SUPPORTING YOUR LIVING OR PERSONAL NEEDSThis section may be particularly relevant to you if you have mobility difficulties or personal care needs, or if you have any other non-academic support requirements.If you have a mobility or sensory impairment a pre-entry visit as early as possible is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED, as some students find the campus more readily accessible than others. Applicants with significant mobility difficulties who intend to live on campus are also advised to have a Needs Assessment carried out by an appropriately qualified body, such as their local Social Work Department, prior to arrival.4.1 Physical Environment: University Campuses The University of Stirling has 3 campuses. The Campuses in Inverness and Stornoway are dedicated to Nursing and Midwifery training. The largest campus, at Stirling is located 3 miles from Stirling town centre and is served by local bus and taxi services. Most buildings are located within the campus with the exception of a few off-campus residences. While most footpaths have gentle gradients there are some areas where steeper gradients or steps are unavoidable. Although access is sometimes not ideal, most areas are accessible by wheelchair users. The notable exceptions are Airthrey Castle (an 18th century listed building) and also the residences where there are no lifts and access is limited to ground floor level.All other buildings have been constructed within the last thirty- four years and have provision for level access. Accessible toilets are provided within all main buildings. Teaching and Central Area buildings are equipped with passenger lifts and most classrooms are accessible for wheelchair users. All main22 lecture theatres have been recently refurbished with wheelchair stations, and modern audio/visual and other support systems installed.An ongoing building refurbishment programme includes further improvements to facilities for disabled people. Currently, improvements are being made to a number of passenger lifts, and a number of doors in the main teaching facilities are being replaced, to improve access.External steps are white edged. Internal stairs are mostly fitted with contrasting edge nosing and, where this is not yet provided; it is included in renewal plans. Lighting levels can sometimes be altered on request within specific working areas.Routes accessible by wheelchairs have been recently improved with the use of combined traffic calming and raised pedestrian crossings to provide level routes with improved lighting. Unfortunately some students do find some of the larger doors on campus difficult to use. While the Estates and Campus Services Office systematically consider ways to improve access, particularly when refurbishments are undertaken, these doors are necessary for fire safety. Generally speaking, designated parking spaces are located close to the level access entrances of all the main teaching venues and halls of residence. Students wishing permission to use these parking spaces must apply for a permit from the Car Parking Office (4Z1) and application forms are available from Student Support Services. A charge will normally apply for a permit to park on campus. The exception to this is for students who are registered as disabled (i.e. blue badge holders).A Campus Access map, which provides information on parking and access routes, is available from: www.external.stir.ac.uk/php_include/content/disabled- access.pdf or hard copies are available by contacting Student Support Services.23 The Campuses at Inverness and Stornoway are both located within hospital trust buildings. Both Stornoway and Inverness campuses have good access.4.2 University Accommodation Undergraduate accommodation on-campus is comprised mainly of multi-level residences with access to upper and lower levels provided by stairs only. Students with mobility difficulties or medical conditions, which might necessitate them being allocated a room at access/ground level, may specifically request this from Residential Services. Some access/ground level rooms have already benefited from having been adapted to meet specific needs. In certain instances – provided sufficient notice has been given to make the necessary arrangements - rooms can be further adapted to meet individual needs. A wide range of postgraduate accommodation, all of which is located off campus, is available. The majority of postgraduate accommodation is, unfortunately, not suited to wheelchair access, but may well be suited to students with other disabilities. Where appropriate access cannot be provided in postgraduate residences, and suitable accommodation is available in undergraduate residences, this can be offered as an alternative.Early contact with Residential Services and perhaps a visit to assess the suitability of facilities is strongly recommended where there may be particular needs. To arrange a visit, you should contact Elspeth McGregor in Student Support Services (see section 2.3) in the first instance. If you have a medical condition such as epilepsy or diabetes, it is advised that you inform the Residence Manager and/or the Head of Residential Services. It is also recommended that you inform those friends living around you and of any First Aid treatments that you may require in the event of an emergency. This simple action could save your life.24 Residential Services produce an Accommodation for Postgraduate Students booklet. If you are offered a place at the University, you will receive a copy of this booklet, along with Accommodation application forms.Further information about accommodation at Stirling University can be found on the website, at: www.studentaccommodation.stir.ac.uk.4.3 Shopping and Local FacilitiesA range of shops and services are located on campus at Stirling University. These include: a supermarket, a newsagent and Post Office, a branch of the Bank of Scotland, a bookshop, a stationery and gift shop and a range of coffee shops and catering outlets. Off campus, in Stirling itself and in Bridge of Allan, are a wide range of shops, restaurants and pubs. These are accessible by bus or taxi. The Stirling University Students’ Association (SUSA) manages a range of entertainment outlets on-campus. See section 6.3 for further information about SUSA and their facilities.The MacRobert Arts Centre, a well-established theatre production and film company, is located on Stirling campus; contact information can be found in section 9.Visit the ‘Campus Life’ section of our website for further information about the Stirling Campus and local facilities: www.external.stir.ac.uk/students/campus_info/index.php 25 4.4 Personal and Emotional SupportStudents and applicants who require assistance with day to day living needs should see the following sections: 5.2 Benefits and Home Care Support and 10.2 Personal Care.Students who would benefit from some additional emotional support can access free and confidential counselling from Student Support Services: Counselling and Wellbeing Service (see section 9 for contact details). Alternatively you may wish to contact the welfare team in SUSA, who are also on hand for a chat or to assist with specific issues (see section 6.3).5 FINANCIAL SUPPORTIf you incur additional costs as a result of a disability, you may be entitled to additional funding or financial support from a variety of sources as described below. In general terms, funding towards equipment or support specific to your academic studies may be available from the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS), or your LEA/LELB where applicable, through the Disabled Students Allowance or DSA as it is more commonly referred to (see section 5.1).If you require any additional financial assistance e.g. for personal support needs or accommodation - which is not payable under the terms of the DSA - you may be entitled to claim benefits (see section 5.2). Additionally, or as an alternative, you may be able to apply for additional funds from a variety of charities or trusts. Advice on funding is available from Student Support Service’s finance advisers (see section 6.1). 26 5.1 Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)Students who are eligible for assistance towards tuition fees, grants or Student Loans may be entitled to an additional allowance called the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA). To be eligible for the DSA, you must be classified as a ‘Home status’ student, and be registered on an eligible course of study as a full-time student or a part-time student following at least 50% of a full-time course. Some post-graduate students on funded courses are also entitled to claim DSA. Nursing & Midwifery students may also be eligible for DSA. For full details on DSA eligibility:  Scottish students should contact the Disability Adviser or Dyslexia Adviser/Tutor, or the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (www.student-support-saas.gov.uk) or your relevant funding body.  Students from England, Wales or Northern Ireland should contact your LEA/LELB for advice on eligibility and application procedures.The Disabled Students Allowance is divided into three categories:  Basic Allowance (towards e.g. photocopying costs, small items of equipment, special dietary needs)  Large Items of Equipment Allowance (towards e.g. IT equipment, ergonomic furniture)  Non-Medical Personal Help Allowance (towards e.g. the costs of a note taker or interpreter).You may apply for a DSA at any time before (once you have a conditional or unconditional offer) or during your studies. If you have ongoing costs (such as photocopying, ink cartridges, note taking) you are entitled to make a new application every year. The Disability Adviser or Dyslexia Adviser/Tutor provides advice and assistance with your claim, as a counter signature is required.27 5.2 Benefits and Home Care SupportYou may be entitled to claim benefits whilst registered on either a full-time or part-time course of study. These include Income Support, Incapacity Benefit, Disability Living Allowance, Severe Disablement Allowance and Housing Benefit. Strict eligibility rules apply for each of these. For general advice or assistance with a benefits claim, you may contact Student Support Services.If you require assistance with day-to-day living, e.g. personal care, or assistance with shopping or laundry, you may be eligible for assistance provided by your local Social Work (Home Care) Department. Alternatively, or in addition to; you may require adaptations to your home or university residence. If you believe that you may need this kind of assistance, contact your local Social Work Department Office, or contact the Disability Adviser for guidance in the first instance.5.3 Hardship Funds and Childcare Care FundsA number of student hardship funds are administered by Finance Advisers at Student Support Services. These include the Government sponsored Hardship Fund and Childcare Care Fund, and the University funded Nightingale Fund and Necessitous Students Fund. Specific eligibility rules apply for each of these funds. These funds are intended to provide additional financial assistance to you if you are experiencing severe financial hardship. Normally, you would not receive assistance towards costs incurred due to a disability, unless funding was not available from alternative sources. For further information and advice on eligibility contact one of our Finance Advisers at Student Support Services.5.4 Charities and Trusts28 A searchable directory of charities and trusts, which accept applications from disabled students called ‘Funder Finder’, and is available in the Career Development Centre (see useful contacts at the end of this booklet) or a similar programme is available for use in 4Y4 Cottrell Building, Reception area.There is also a list of trusts and charities on the Skill website: www.skill.org.uk/info/infosheets.aspIf you require assistance in making an application, please contact Student Support Services.6 GENERAL AND WELL-BEING ADVICEThere are a number of services within the University of Stirling that provide information, advice and support on welfare, wellbeing and health related issues.6.1 Student Support Services Student Support Services provides a student centred, informal and confidential service to all students and applicants to the University. Whilst there is a range of specialist services, any issue can be brought to Student Support Services.The Student Support Services is made up of three areas. The Information and Advice Centre includes disability support services including mental health, dyslexia support services and student finance and benefit advice services. Counselling services are available through Counselling and Wellbeing. The third area of Student Support Services is the Career Development Centre (see section 6.2)The Information and Advice Centre and Counselling and Wellbeing are open during semester time 9am – 5pm Monday Information and Advice and Counselling and Wellbeing both make up the service that was formerly known as Student Information and Support Service or SISS, a term that may still be referred to amongst the University community29 to Thursday and 10.30am – 5pm Friday. [We are open shorter hours during holiday periods between 10am - 3.30pm Mon- Thurs and 10.30am – 3.30am Fridays, closed for lunch 12.30 – 1.30pm]. The Student Support Services website (www.student- support.stir.ac.uk) is regularly updated, and provides information on the services available, student interest groups and links to relevant external sites. You can drop in to the 4Y4 Cottrell Building, to browse through the information stands or make an appointment to see any of the advisers. A range of information leaflets covering different aspects of the service is available.Sheila MacAulay works from Inverness campus part-time as Student Adviser for the Highland Campus. As a Highland student you can access counselling services through Sheila and make a request for any of the services in Stirling that do not have a presence in either Inverness or Stornoway (See section 9 for contact details). 6.2 The Career Development CentreThe Career Development Centre endeavours to provide resources, which will enable you to make informed career decisions, pursue your goals effectively and develop the kind of skills, which will help you, manage your career throughout your life.The services offered can be summarised as follows:Careers Guidance  One to one: interviews and mock job interviews. Students who wish to speak to a careers adviser about their career plans can take advantage of the drop-in sessions, which take place between 10am and 4pm, Monday – Friday.Careers Information 30  A fortnightly vacancy bulletin  A well-stocked careers information room, including specific files on issues for disabled students  A Job shop for part-time, casual and temporary vacancies throughout the year  Software packages to assist in the identification of career ideas and funding opportunities  Take away information: directories and magazines  Careers information fairs  An ongoing programme of employer presentationsCareers Education  Credit-bearing career planning modules  Credit- bearing work experience modules  An ongoing programme of careers seminars  BP Student Tutoring programme for those seeking to gain classroom experience  An annual CRAC Insight Into Management course The Career Development Centre is situated in room 3A1 of the Cottrell Building on Stirling Campus with wheelchair access via lifts in the W and X corridors. It is open Monday to Friday between 9am – 5pm (with the exception of Thursdays when it opens at 10am). Further information is available at: www.careers.stir.ac.uk or tel. 01786 467070.31 6.3 Stirling University Students Association (SUSA) SUSA actively supports equal opportunities for all students, including those with seen and unseen disabilities. The Disabled Students Officer represents the views of disabled students on SUSA Council. He/she is able to represent students within the University or external agencies on a wide range of issues including accommodation, parking, IT, free access to all areas of the University, coursework and examinations and aims to raise awareness of the assistance that can be offered to disabled students. Additionally, SUSA has an Equal Opportunities Officer, who sits on SUSA Executive and is able to represent and advise any student with harassment or discrimination queries on the basis of sex, sexuality, age, religion, race or disability. The Vice-President & Welfare Officer is a full-time Sabbatical, so can be contacted between 10am-4pm in the SUSA Office, Tel: 01786 467166 or e-mail: [email protected] All the above student representatives can be contacted in the SUSA Office in complete confidentiality so don't hesitate to contact any of them with any disability-related problems, queries, suggestions or even just for a chat. For further information please visit SUSA’s website: www.susaonline.org.uk 6.4 The ChaplaincyThe Chaplaincy is based at the centre of the campus. The Chaplains are all part-time, and are appointed and financed by their respective denominations, working together as an ecumenical team to encourage the well-being of the University community. In addition to offering confidential spiritual and pastoral care, the Chaplaincy also organises programmes of worship, discussion and social events, which include supporting local32 charities. One of the chaplains’ co-ordinates a Host Family Scheme for international students. Although worship is predominantly Christian, provision is made for other religious traditions, such as Muslim and Jewish, and the Chaplaincy will put new students in touch with the nearest representatives from their own religious group. The University also provides a prayer room for use by Muslim students in room S18. The centre has easy access for wheelchair users, and you are welcome to drop in at any time during weekdays, 9am to 5pm, coffee and tea are ‘on tap’ throughout the day!Further information about the Chaplaincy can be obtained from: www.chaplaincy.stir.ac.uk7 OTHER SERVICES ON CAMPUS7.1 The Gannochy Sports Centre and the National Academy for SwimmingThe Department of Sports Studies promotes and encourages participation in sport by all people. Part of this commitment is expressed in the accessibility of its services and facilities to disabled people. In January 2002 the University opened the National Swimming Academy. The pool is designed to meet the needs of customers of all abilities. It features level entry access for participants and spectators, purpose designed toilets and showers, a deck level pool and hoist with four access points. In 2005 the International Paralympics Association and International Association of Sports and Leisure Facilities presented an award for the design and accessibility of the pool.Access to the Sports Centre is level with all facilities on the ground floor. The Michael P Jackson Fitness Suite can be accessed either by stairs or lift. The suite contains equipment designed for use by disabled people. 33 Changing rooms, toilets and showering facilities have been adapted and all playing and circulation areas are well illuminated. The Tennis Centre also has level access, with adapted changing and toilet facilities. The design features for disabled people received an award and consequently tennis has become a popular activity.There is designated parking provided in front of the swimming pool and by the rear entrance to the Sports Centre.In addition to facility provision, the department is keen to further support disabled people participate in sport. In 2004 a ‘buddy scheme’ was set up which aimed to lend extra support to students who require help in using the facilities. A number of Sports Studies students support this initiative and volunteer their time to exercise alongside and assist disabled students. In the past activities such as swimming and gym sessions have proved popular within this scheme 7.2 GP services and Airthrey Park Medical CentreAll students resident on campus or in the neighbouring area are asked to register on arrival with either Airthrey Park Medical Centre or any of the other local GP practices. Situated close to the residences on campus, Airthrey Park Medical Centre is an NHS practice working from modern purpose built premises. The practice is independent of the University although it is located on campus. There is a ramped entrance for wheelchair access and an accessible toilet. Designated parking is provided at the main entrance. There are four doctors (male and female), two health visitors and practice nurses who can liase with social work, occupational therapy and community physiotherapy if needed. Local psychiatrists hold clinics at the Centre, by referral from the doctors. There is also an NHS dentist. 34 An information leaflet is available from the practice (see section 9 for contact details). 8 OTHER THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT8.1 Your SafetyAny concerns about your personal safety should be brought to the attention of the University Safety Adviser or the University Fire Officer (see useful contacts at the end of this booklet), who are both very willing to assist students in minimising risk to themselves and others. Previous discussions between students, the Safety Office and Estates and Campus Services resulted in tactile flooring being installed in the Atrium to warn those with visual impairments of the proximity of the stairs. Flashing beacons linked to the fire alarm system are fitted in the MacRobert Centre, Atrium area and throughout Pathfoot and ongoing in Cottrell to alert people with a hearing impairment. The Safety Office is always willing to offer advice or assistance on health and safety issues and can be contacted directly or through the other key contacts listed.Fire Prevention and EvacuationAlmost all university buildings are covered by current Fire Certificates and are regularly inspected by the Fire Brigade. Both on and off campus residences have an automatic fire detection system consisting of heat and smoke detectors and the off campus system automatically calls the fire brigade. Evacuation procedures vary according to the layout of the different buildings and you should make yourself familiar with escape routes in the buildings that you use. For instance in Cottrell it is generally possible to evacuate ‘horizontally’ by moving along the A (levels 2 and 3 only) or B corridor from a zone where the fire alarm is sounding to one where the fire alarm is not sounding. In some parts of Cottrell, the Library and Pathfoot protected ‘refuges’ have been marked for those with mobility problems. These are safe places to wait for35 rescue and the Porters desk should be notified of your location. Most of the refuges have voice contact. Currently some lifts do not have voice contact but do have local alarms. These are not recommended for use outside normal working hours unless others are available to raise the alarm in case of failure. These lifts are due for upgrade in the near future. All students will be given the opportunity to discuss evacuation procedures specific to their needs. Please ask the Disability Adviser about creating a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan.N.B. Under no circumstances should anyone use a lift in a zone where the fire alarm is sounding.8.2 Disability Advisory Group The Disability Advisory Group draws its membership form key staff and student representatives at the University. The group is chaired by Prof. Grant Jarvie, Senior Deputy Principal, and focuses on policy and practical issues affecting people with disabilities at the University. Although it is not a formally constituted group it reports to relevant University Committees, which are part of the University’s governance infrastructure.8.3 Staff AwarenessThe student learning experience at the University of Stirling is, to a great extent, dependant on the attitude, knowledge and skills of the staff with whom students come into contact on a daily basis. As part of its commitment to supporting disabled people, the Training and Development Unit has integrated training on disability issues into its Staff Development Programme. This ensures that staff are working from an up to date skills and knowledge base. It does this by:36  Incorporating a session on disability in the mandatory induction programme for new staff Running general disability awareness sessions Providing training on the Disability Discrimination Act and the University’s responsibility to disabled students and applicants Organising specialist training for staff working with specific disabilities such as dyslexia and mental health difficulties Maintaining a collection of staff development resources, housed in the University Library, which includes a wide range of information and materials about disabilities housed in the university libraryThe Unit welcomes comments on the content of courses aimed at building awareness of disability issues.8.4 Any other Issues?If you have any issues or concerns that are not addressed in this guide then please do not hesitate to contact Student Support Services in the first instance, who may be able to assist with your query or point you in the right direction!9 USEFUL CONTACTS ON THE STIRLING CAMPUSStudents and applicants are asked to make contact with the Disability Adviser or Dyslexia Adviser/Tutor in the first instance. Where appropriate, they will direct you towards other useful contacts both within the University and in the surrounding area.The following key contacts may provide ongoing support or assistance to you throughout the course of your studies at Stirling University. All contact names and details were correct at time of publication.37 Student Support Services Provides advice on any aspect of student life. All services are free and confidential. More information is available from the website at www.student-support.stir.ac.uk Information & Advice Centre Tel: 01786 467080 Fax: 01786 466806 Email: [email protected] Counselling & Wellbeing Tel: 01786 467080 Fax: 01786 466806 Email: [email protected] Career Development Centre Tel: 01786 467070 Fax: 01786 467076 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.careers.stir.ac.ukHIGHLAND CAMPUS - Student Support Services For Inverness and Stornoway CampusesSheila MacAulay University of Stirling Highland Campus Centre for Health Science Old Perth Road Inverness IV2 3JHTel: 01463 255655; direct no. 01463 255611 Fax: 01463 255654 Email: Sheila McAulay: [email protected]38 Senior Accessible Curriculum Adviser Contact Name: Paul Amery Tel: 01786 466611 Email: [email protected]Special IT Needs Adviser Contact Name: Ruth Simpson Tel: 01786 466618 Email: [email protected]Senior Assistive Technology Trainer Contact name: Nola Ross Tel: 01786 466617 Email: [email protected]Library Assistant (with disability remit) Contact Name: Darren Matheson Tel: 01786 466817 Email: [email protected] Examinations Office Contact Name: Natalie Sutherland Tel: 01786 466682 E-mail: [email protected] SUSA (Stirling University Students Association) Tel: 01786 467166/467180 Fax: 01786 467190 Email: [email protected] Website: www.susaonline.org.ukEstates and Campus Services – Property Management Tel: 01786 467096 Website: www.propman.stir.ac.uk Safety Officer Contact Name: David Duckett Tel: 01786 467078 Email: [email protected] Website: www.she.stir.ac.uk 39 Fire Officer Contact Name: John Galsworthy Tel: 01786 466147 Email: [email protected] Website: www.she.stir.ac.ukResidential Services Tel: 01786 467060 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.studentaccommodation.stir.ac.uk DAICE (Division of Academic Innovation and Continuing Education) Tel: 01786 467940 Email: [email protected] Website: www.stir.ac.uk/departments/daiceLibrary Website: www.library.stir.ac.uk Stirling Campus Tel: 01786 467250 Email: [email protected]  Highland Campus Tel: 01463 255600 (Ext. 7600) Email: [email protected]  Western Isles Campus The Western Isles Campus Library is situated in the Educational Centre at the Western Isles Hospital, in the town of Stornoway.Chaplaincy Contact Name: Eva Fairlie Tel: 01786 467164 Website: www.chaplaincy.stir.ac.uk40 Sports Centre Tel: 01786 466900 Email: [email protected] Website: www.sports-dev.stir.ac.uk Airthrey Park Medical Centre Tel: 01786 463831MacRobert Arts Centre Tel: 01786 466666 Fax: 01786 466600 Email: [email protected] Website: www.macrobert.org10 EXTERNAL PROVIDERS OF SUPPORT AND ADVICEThe SKILL (National Bureau for Students with Disabilities) website (www.skill.org.uk) is a comprehensive source of information and advice for students and applicants with disabilities. The University is a member of SKILL, and SKILL Scotland’s Edinburgh office can be contacted on 0131 475 2348.Other useful guidelines can be found on the QAA (Quality Assurance Agency) website (www.qaa.ac.uk). Included is the Code of Practice for Students with Disabilities, which sets out examples of the standards and procedures that Universities might consider in relation to their provision for students with disabilities. 10.1 ACCESSIBLE TRANSPORTDial-A-Journey, Dial-A-Hire or Dial-A-Shopper A door-to-door transport service for people resident in Stirling, Clackmannanshire and Falkirk Council areas that have a mobility problem and are unable to use ordinary buses Tel: 01786 465355 FAX and Minicom: 01786 47195441 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dial-a-journey.org Taxicard This scheme is available to people with permanent disabilities that cannot use ordinary buses offering subsidised taxi travel Tel: 01786 442704 (Enquiries) Tel: 01786 451414 (to book a taxi)Easyboarder Is an accessible local bus service. See website for details: http://www.stirling.gov.uk/index/services_homepage/roads/rt- communityandaccessible-1.htm Shopmobility Shopmobility is a scheme that lends scooters and wheelchairs to anyone with limited mobility that wishes to shop and make use of facilities in Stirling City Centre from Tuesdays to Saturdays. The scheme is available to residents and visitors alike, and is completely free of charge. Shopmobility is based within Stirling Bus Station. Tel: 01786 449606 Website: www.stirling.gov.uk/index/services_homepage/roads/rt- communityandaccessible-1.htm Entitlement Card Scotland wide free bus travel for older and disabled people (replaces the local bus pass) Tel: 0845 277 7000 Email: [email protected] Blue Badge Scheme Badges are issued to disabled people to allow close parking to their destinations. Tel: 01786 442645Website (has for application form online):42 www.stirling.gov.uk/index/services_homepage/roads/rt- parkingbadges.htm 10.2 PERSONAL AND HOME CARESocial Work Area Office (Community Care and Home Care Services) Contact your local social work office for an assessment of your care needs; Stirling – (01786) 471177 (If your permanent home address is out with the Stirling area, you should contact your local Social Work department. You should find them listed in the phone book).10.3 DYSLEXIA ADVICE AND SUPPORTDyslexia Scotland Stirling Business Centre Wellgreen Stirling, FK8 2DZ Tel: 01786 446650 National Helpline: 0844 800 84 84 Email: [email protected]Dyslexia Action (Scotland) Napier Hall Street Centre 39 Napier Hall Street Glasgow, G20 6EZ Tel: 0141 334 4549 Email: [email protected] Dyslexia Scotwest 93 Woodside Place Lane Glasgow, G3 7RB Tel: 0141-331-2121 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dyslexia-scotwest.org.uk British Dyslexia Association Tel: 0118 966 267743 Helpline: 0118 966 8271 Email: [email protected] Website: www.bdadyslexia.org.uk Adult Dyslexia Organisation Website: www.adult-dyslexia.org 10.4 MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES & COUNSELLINGThe University has guidelines on Mental Health Issues for students and staff. This includes a comprehensive list of internal and external sources of support and advice. Please refer to website: http://www.quality.stir.ac.uk/disability/mh- guidelines.phpStirling and District Association for Mental Health Tel: 01786 451203 Email: [email protected]Scottish Association for Mental Health Tel: 0141 568 7000 Email: [email protected] Website: www.samh.org.ukNational Schizophrenia Association (NSF) Scotland Tel: 0131 557 8969 Fax: 0131 557 8968 Email: [email protected] Website: www.nsfscot.org.ukDepression Alliance Scotland Tel: 0845 123 23 20 or 0131 467 3050 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dascot.org Moodjuice Forth Valley Email: www.moodjuice.scot.nhs.uk 10.5 OTHER DISABILITY ORGANISATIONSDisability Rights Commission44 Tel: 08457 622 633 Fax: 08457 778 878 Textphone: 08457 622 644 Website: www.drc.org.ukUpdate Scotland's National Disability Information Service Helpline: 0131 558 5200 Website: www.update.org.uk Stirling Council on Disability The Norman MacEwan Centre Caledonian Street Stirling, FK8 2DX Open: Tue, Wed, Thurs, and Fri - 10.00am - 3.00pm Tel: 01786 462178 Email: [email protected]RNIB (Scotland) Tel: 0845 766 9999 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rnib.org.uk RNID (Scotland) Telephone: 0141 341 5330 Textphone: 0141 341 5347 Fax: 0141 354 0176 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rnid.org.uk Dyspraxia Foundation Helpline: 01462 454 986 Fax: 01462 455 052 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dyspraxiafoundation.org.uk National Autistic Society in Scotland Tel: 0141 221 8090 Fax: 0141 221 811845 Email: [email protected] Website: www.nas.org.uk MS Society Website: www.mssocietyscotland.org.uk The Epilepsy Association of Scotland Tel: 0141 427 4911 Fax: 0141 419 1709 Web site: www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk 11 FURTHER READING AND USEFUL RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS AND STAFF11.1 University of Stirling ResourcesWe would also like to draw your attention to a number of internal University publications, which may interest you. Many of them can be accessed via the University website (www.stir.ac.uk) or from the University Library. Disability Equality Duty and the Disability Equality Scheme www.diversityandequality.stir.ac.uk/disability/index.php  The University Calendar (www.calendar.stir.ac.uk) contains the codes and policies under which the University operates.  The University has a Policy on Harassment (www.personnel.stir.ac.uk/personnel/policies_pdf/harass ment.pdf)  Equal Opportunities Guide for Staff and Students (http://www.guides.stir.ac.uk/equaloppscover.htm) You will also find information about the University in the prospectus, the Student Handbook (which all students receive on arrival) and in Departmental handbooks and guidance. 46  University policy on confidentiality - can be found on the University website within the guide to the Data Protection Act: www.guides.stir.ac.uk/equaloppscover.htm  University Guidelines on Mental Health for Staff and Students can be found on our web pages at: www.quality.stir.ac.uk/disability/mh-guidelines.php A range of leaflets on disability related issues is also available in Student Support Services, 4Y4 Cottrell11.2 External ResourcesQAA Code of Practice – Quality and standards in HE – Students with Disabilities Available on the QAA website: www.qaa.ac.uk/academicinfrastructure/codeOfPractice/section3 /COP_disab.pdf Disability Rights Commission: www.drc-gb.org Various information and support around the Disability Discrimination Act. New DDA Post-16 Education Regulations and Code of Practice: HTML: www.drc-gb.org/Docs/Post_16_Code_of_Practice.doc PDF: www.drc-gb.org/PDF/Post_16_Code_of_Practice.pdf Preparing and writing the Disability Equality Scheme: www.drc.org.uk/pdf/Single%20Equality%20Scheme.pdf  Disability Equality Duty: www.drc.org.uk/pdf/Further_and_higher_education_instit utions_and_the_DED.pdf 47 Special Educational Needs and Disability Act 2001 (SENDA): www.hmso.gov.uk/acts/acts2001/20010010.htm Disability Legislation: Practical Guidance for Academic Staff: www.ecu.ac.uk/publications/guidancepublications/DisabilityLegi slation_practical_guidance.pdfScottish Disability Team: www.sdt.ac.uk Website contains articles, papers and other general information on issues relating to disability and education for all audiencesEquality Challenge Unit: promoting equality and diversity in higher education: www.ecu.ac.uk Disability Homepage: www.ecu.ac.uk/guidance/disability Students First: The Experiences of Students in Higher Education. (Scottish Council for Research in Education, 1998) Available on the SCRE website: www.scre.ac.uk/resreport/rr85/index.html Removing Barriers and Creating Opportunities: Scottish Parliament Disability Inquiry Report: www.scottish.parliament.uk/business/committees/equal/report s-06/eor06-02-Vol01-00.htm Skill Information Sheets Information and Advice on a wide range of topics for students of further and higher education with disabilities: www.skill.org.uk/info/infosheets.asp Demos- Online Materials for Staff Disability Awareness http://jarmin.com/demos/ Understanding Dyslexia. An Introduction for Students in Higher Education (Glasgow School of Art, 2000) Available from Student Support Services and on the SHEFC website: www.sfc.ac.uk/publications/pubs_other_shefcarchive/understa nding_dyslexia.pdf 48 British Dyslexia Association (BDA) Information Sheets: Information and support for dyslexic people or those working with dyslexic people available on BDA website: www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/helpline.html Accessible Curricula. Good Practice for All (University of Wales, 2002). Available online:PDF: www.surrey.ac.uk/dsg/documents/Accessible_Curricula.pdf HTML: http://66.102.9.104/search? q=cache:b3NyAoHjKuEJ:www.surrey.ac.uk/dsg/documents/Acc essible_Curricula.pdf+Accessible+Curricula. +Good+Practice+for+All&hl=en&gl=uk&ct=clnk&cd=4&ie=UTF -8Teachability Reference copy of the Teachability Report available on the Internet: www.teachability.strath.ac.ukMaking Your Teaching Inclusive: www.open.ac.uk/inclusiveteaching/index.phpTalk: Actions Speak Louder than Words Video (c 10mins) for staff development use - Raises awareness of Disability Discrimination Act and Disability issues copies can be requested direct from the Disability Rights Commission.49 12 FEEDBACK AND COMPLAINT PROCEDURE12.1 Complaint ProcedureIf you have any comments on the quality of the services provided, or having failed to resolve an issue by informal discussion you wish to make a formal complaint. If so, you should contact:Mark Wilkinson Head of Student Support Services 4Y Cottrell Building University of Stirling Stirling FK9 4LAPlease refer to section 12.2 below if you would like to give us feedback about any aspect of this document or indeed any of the services you have received as described in this document. 50 12.2 Feedback FormYour feedback is invaluable and enables us to refine our activities and services, thus improving standards for staff and students across the University.1. Did you find this document useful? Yes / No2. Do you have any suggestions to improve this document?3. Do you have any suggestions regarding the improvement of any aspect of the services provided to disabled students at the University of Stirling including those described at Student Support Services or Information Services?4. Are there elements of our current practices that you find particularly good or bad?51 5. Are you a: o Current Student o Applicant o Prospective applicant/student o Parent o Member of staff Thank you for taking the time to complete this form. Please return it anonnymously to: Guide Feedback, Student Support Services, Information and Advice Centre, 4Y4 Cottrell Building, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA Alternatively you can email your feedback to [email protected] although this will no longer be annonymous. If you would like a response to your comments or wish to discuss them further with us, please provide us with your contact details below.52 Written, edited and produced by Student Support Services as a collaborative effort with colleagues across the University. First Produced December 1996Updated September 1997, September 1998, June 2000, June 2002, March 2004This update December 2006Next Update Planned June/July 2007 Feedback and comments are welcomed to include in this edition53

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