Universities and colleges across the West are joining together to spread the message that disability isn’t a barrier to higher education, in an information evening for parents on Wednesday 9 June (Bristol).
Parents often play a big part in decisions made by disabled young people, or those with specific learning needs, so the evening is designed to give information about funding options and practical support for students with dyslexia and other specific learning difficulties, disability or deaf support needs.
The event, called Breaking down barriers for a better future, will be held at the University of Bristol and is open to parents from across the region.
According to the Disability Rights Commission disabled people are still only half as likely as non-disabled people to be qualified to degree level and are twice as likely as non-disabled people to have no qualification at all.
Iryna Withington, Disability Strand Coordinator at the University of Bath, who is leading the initiative, said: “Parents of children with specific learning needs and disabilities often have extra concerns about them going to university or college.
“This free event will give information about additional funding, specialist support, assistive technology such as laptops, and support for independent living to assure parents that higher education is a very real possibility for their children.
“Universities and colleges have specialist staff with expertise in providing support packages for students with a variety of additional needs.”
The event is part of a national programme called Aimhigher that exists to encourage young people to stay in education.
The parents’ evening will take place at the University of Bristol, Hawthorns, Woodland Road, on Wednesday 9 June from 6pm-8pm. For more information and to book places please contact Lin Reynolds. Email Lin.Reynolds@bristol.ac.uk or call 0117 954 5724.