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Staff Training - Supporting Students with a Disability

Disability Image , Disability ImageWelcome to our dedicated space for supporting students with disabilities—a place where inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment come first. Every student deserves the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, regardless of their abilities. This webpage is designed to provide resources, guidance, and inspiration for University staff, fostering an environment where everyone can succeed.

Here, you’ll find practical strategies for inclusive teaching, information on assistive technologies, legal rights and accommodations, and stories that highlight the resilience and achievements of students with disabilities. Whether you're a teacher looking to adapt your classroom, a parent seeking support, or a student advocating for your needs, this platform is here to help you navigate the journey.

We believe that diversity enriches the learning experience for all. By embracing the unique strengths and challenges of each student, we create a more compassionate and effective educational community. Let’s work together to break down barriers, celebrate differences, and ensure that every learner has the tools and support they need to reach their full potential.

Explore, learn, and join us in building a more inclusive future—one student at a time.

The University is committed to ensuring students are able to participate effectively in their chosen programme of study and all areas of University life. The University defines disability broadly, including:

  • mobility impairments
  • sensory impairments
  • medical conditions
  • autism (ASD)
  • specific learning differences (SpLD's such as Dyslexia or Dyspraxia)
  • mental health conditions.

  • Equality Act 2010 and Reasonable Adjustments

    The Equality Act 2010 is a UK law that protects individuals from discrimination based on protected characteristics, including disabilities. It requires educational institutions to ensure that students with a disability are not placed at a substantial disadvantage compared to non-disabled peers.

    Find out more about the Equality Act 2010 and how you can make reasonable adjustments to support our students. 

    Disability Rights UK have created this short video which gives an overview of the Equality Act 2010 and some examples of reasonable adjustments.

     

    Reasonable Adjustments at the University of Cumbria

    The University of Cumbria is committed to supporting disabled students through anticipatory and individual reasonable adjustments. These include:

    • Accessible Learning Environments: Modifications to teaching spaces, classroom technology, and learning resources.
    • Assessment Adjustments: Alternative formats or methods to demonstrate learning outcomes without compromising academic standards.
    • Specialist Support: Access to non-medical help such as mentoring, study skills support, and mental health services.
    • Inclusive Practices: Embedding disability equality into recruitment, enrolment, teaching, placements, and graduation processes. 

    The university aims to ensure that all students, regardless of disability, can meet the professional and academic standards of their chosen courses while receiving the support they need.

  • Supporting Students

    Your Role as a Staff Member

    As a member of staff, you play a vital role in:

    • Creating an inclusive learning environment
    • Implementing reasonable adjustments
    • Being approachable and responsive to student needs
    • Referring students to the Disability Team when appropriate

    You are not expected to diagnose or provide specialist support, but you can help students access the right services.

    Reasonable Adjustments and Support Plans

    The University of Cumbria provides:

    • Individual Support Plans outlining agreed adjustments
    • Assistive Technology including software, apps, and accessible workstations
    • Specialist Study Skills and Mentoring
    • Alternative assessment arrangements (e.g., extra time, rest breaks)

    Adjustments are based on medical evidence and student consultation. Staff are expected to implement these adjustments consistently. 

     

    Communicating with Students

    When supporting students with disabilities:

    • Use inclusive language and avoid assumptions
    • Respect confidentiality and privacy
    • Ask, “What support would be helpful for you?”
    • Be flexible with communication methods (e.g., email, Teams, in-person)

    Students may also wear a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard to discreetly indicate they may need additional support. 

     

    Referral and Support Services

    Encourage students to:

    • Complete the Support Request Form on MyCumbria
    • Book a 1:1 appointment with a Disability Officer
    • Apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) for funding specialist equipment and support
    • Access SpLD screening if they suspect a learning difference

    Appointments are available in person, online, or by phone. 

     

    Creating an Inclusive Learning Environment

    You can support inclusion by:

    • Providing lecture materials in advance
    • Using accessible formats (e.g., captions, alt text, readable fonts)
    • Offering flexible deadlines where appropriate
    • Encouraging peer support and group collaboration

    Inclusivity benefits all students and enhances the learning experience.

     

ns_step, The Disability MyCumbria Website has lots of useful information about supporting students with a disability or learning difference.

Students can complete a Support Request form to declare a disability/SpLD and request support.

If you have questions or concerns about supporting a student, contact the Disability Team via the Student Enquiry Point or email disabilityservices@cumbria.ac.uk

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