Access 1st

Access 1st
Access 1st is a needs assessment, advice and support service for disabled people in higher education and employment.

We work with the challenges of learning and work. Our approach supports discovery, problem-solving and is dedicated to identifying ways to do what can be done.

We work to minimise unnecessary obstacles that cause frustration and waste time, thereby enabling you to engage with the interesting and invigorating challenges that are proper to learning and work.

The services that we offer include:

• Assessments of need for study/work;

• Advice and recommendations for reasonable adjustments;

• Strategies for overcoming obstacles;

• Recommendations for suitable equipment, accessories, assistive technologies and human support services;

• Assistive Technology Tutorials to develop real skills and accompanying confidence in the use of tools and resources;

• Referrals for Specialist Support Tutorials/Mentoring/Coaching to facilitate effective study/work;

• Liaison with support providers for implementation of recommendations, attention to detail to enable joined-up services;

• Ongoing support and advice to assist with resolving issues;

• Other ad-hoc services, depending on client needs.

DSA Assessment

Disabled student allowance provides additional financial assistance to students with disabilities or learning difficulties. The government has specific guidelines for determining who is entitled to student finance through the DSA. In order to find out if you are eligible, visit student finance England or student finance Wales and submit an application.

Once your eligibility for student disability allowance has been confirmed, contact us to book an appointment for your DSA needs assessment.

During the DSA Assessment we will discuss what issues are affecting your studies, and ways in which these issues may be overcome. Possible solutions can include help with travel costs, covering costs for specialist software, or even physical assistance.

The amount of student disability allowance you are awarded will depend on your specific needs, not your income. Disabled student allowance is not a loan, you do not have to repay any of the monies you are awarded, nor does student finance provided through DSA affect your eligibility for tax credits or other benefits.