1. Home
  2. The University
  3. Study
  4. Student Services
  5. Student Support Services
  6. Guide to Extra Help and Support

Guide to Extra Help and Support

This guide is for anyone interested in studying at Swansea University who may have a disability or long-standing difficulty.

For the purposes of this guide, the term disability includes individuals with sensory or physical impairments, long term medical conditions, specific learning difficulties (SpLD), autistic spectrum conditions (ASC), and mental health conditions. 

At Swansea University we want all our students to do the best they can and we offer lots of help and support to those who need it.

How we define disability

The Equality Act 2010 says a disability is a condition that has a “substantial and long term negative effect on normal daily activities.” Some examples are dyslexia, ADHD, anxiety, depression, autism, bulimia, sight loss, hearing loss or mobility difficulties.

Step 1: Informing the University

Graphic of a pencil in the Swansea University colours, blue, green and white

Step 2: Additional Funding

Graphic of a graduation cap in the Swansea University colours, blue, green and white

Step 3: Adjustments and Assistive Technology

Graphic of a notebook and pencil in the Swansea University colours, blue, green and white

Step 4: Adapted Accommodation

Graphic of an accommodation block in the Swansea University colours, blue, green and white

Step 5: Personal Care Support

Graphic of three hands up in the air in the Swansea University colours, blue, green and white

Step 6: Checklist and Support Contacts

Graphic of a computer mouse in the Swansea University colours, blue and white

Top Tips for choosing the right University

It is vital to know that your chosen University will provide the help and support needed. Have a look at our top tips to help make this important decision.

  • Research the services provided by each university to make sure they provide what you need
  • Visit the university to get a better insight into the spaces where you’ll be studying. Find out more about our Open Days.
  • Arrange to see the university accommodation
  • Look at what accommodation is available in the local area
  • Visit the city or location

Preparing for university

Preparation can help you settle into university as quickly as possible. Here are some ways in which you can prepare:

  1. Tell us about your disability, learning difficulties, mental health, ASC or medical condition as soon as possible so that we can offer our full support from application through to graduation.
  2. Talk with friends and family about the changes you may experience when you arrive. Get help to practice new routines and learn new skills. Do you know how to use the washing machine? Can you cook yourself a range of simple meals?
  3. Think about any potential challenges you may face and talk with others to come up with ways to overcome these.

Acknowledgements

This guide was produced by Swansea University with the support of the working group on staff support for students with disabilities, Inclusive Student Services (Disability and Wellbeing), Welfare@CampusLife, Swansea University Students’ Union, Transcription Centre, Library Services, Swansea Employability Academy (SEA), International Development Office, Marketing, Samantha Jones (student intern), Student Ambassadors, Student Minds Society and the Swansea Academy of Inclusivity and Learner Success (SAILS).