Visual Impairment

A Visual impairment is a loss of sight that cannot be corrected using glasses or contact lenses.

If you do have a visual impairment, we can help to support you whilst you are studying at º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ.

How can the University support you?

Before you start your studies, we can:

  • meet with you to discuss your individual circumstances. You are welcome to bring family or a friend to this meeting
  •  provide advice on the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)
  • help to secure suitable University accommodation
  • work with your local social services department and/or occupational therapist if required  
  • arrange orientation support to help familiarise yourself with campus and feel confident about traveling independently
  • advise on the medical evidence you will need to provide in order to access support

Depending on an assessment of your needs, either by a DSA assessor or a University Disability Advisor, support could include:

    • arranging a 1-1 library induction
    • arranging orientation support around campus
    • provision of materials in accessible formats e.g. Braille
    • provision of mentoring and/or study support skills
    • support to facilitate access to social activities on campus
    • access to some assistive software on the University IT system
    • adaptations to the physical environment or provision of equipment to meet your individual needs
    • providing advice on applying for and accessing your DSA
    • liaising with your department about reasonable adjustments to course delivery to meet your individual needs
    • arranging for extended library loans
    • arranging for awareness training to your department
    • examination and assessment adjustments

What to do next?

If you are an Applicant:

Regardless of whether you use the disability box in your application, or mention your circumstances in your personal statement, you should use the Disability and Health Portal to share further information with us.

This will give us the opportunity to assess your requirements and arrange support as necessary in time for your studies to start. 

If you are a Current Student:

Current students should contact us directly via our accessing support page.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can find further information about the sport available at º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ below:

Please contact us via our accessing support page and an Advisor will get in touch to discuss your diagnosis and support available to you.  

You can check all your approved support here via the disability tab in your self-service portal.

There is a section in the Disability and Health Portal for you to note any accommodation requirements linked to your physical or mental health.

Answers to frequently asked questions related to specific accommodation requirements can be found online.

Please see answers to our frequently asked questions related to specific accommodation requirements.

External Resources

RNIB

Last Updated: 1st December 2023