Screening and Assessment
The Disability Service offers a screening and assessment service for students who feel they may have specific learning difficulties (SpLD) such as dyslexia or dyscalculia. This service may also include an initial assessment for indicators as to whether a student may also have Autism (ASC) or Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD).
The screening service is to explore whether you may have a SpLD via a screening tool and a follow-up meeting to provide you with guidance on whether a referral to an Educational Psychologist would be beneficial. The service is open to all students, however we do not support students who are doing a PhD, and we may not support students nearing the end of their studies with access to a full assessment by an Educational Psychologist.
If you have a previous assessment of SpLD which does not meet the criteria for your funding body, for example one which has not been carried out after the age 16 or which was not carried out by a suitably qualified person, then this service is available to you to update your current report.
How do I access the service?
If you wish to be screened, you will need to download and complete the Screening form.
Once you have completed this form, email it to disabilityservices@cumbria.ac.uk with any existing evidence such as previous diagnostic reports or medical evidence. Please use Your Initials: Screening Form as your subject title in the email.
What happens next?
Once you have submitted your screening form, you will be contacted about your results and if you have indicators of SpLD you will be offered a screening appointment with a Specialist Learning Development Adviser / Specialist Learning Adviser.
At your appointment further discussions will take place and, where appropriate, students will be recommended an assessment and referred to an assessment provider. All Educational Psychologist assessments are undertaken remotely, via Zoom, unless specifically requested otherwise.
Please note that all students are expected to make a contribution to the cost of the assessment (currently £169 per student). You may be eligible for help with this cost via the Hardship fund and this will be discussed with you.
What are the benefits of being screened?
One of the main benefits of having a full assessment is being able to access the Disabled Student Allowance from your funding body. This may help you with purchasing IT-related equipment, specialist software and specialist study skills support. National studies show that SpLD students accessing support have improved student experience of their course, improved learning and higher degree grades.
Further information on SpLDs and non–linked University based suppliers may be found at the following websites:
The British Psychological Society
Patoss - the Professional Association for teachers of students with Specific Learning Difficulties