Require Universities to Train Staff on Neurodiversity

I often hear stories of autistic students being let down by reasonable adjustments not being granted, or staff treating them in a discriminatory manner. Through my research I found there is a lack of training. I'd like to see mandatory training for university staff at all universities.

Research has previously found that around 2.4% of the student population in the UK have autism - and less than 40% of these individuals complete their course at University. Those on the spectrum are nearly 10 times more likely to drop out of University. These statistics do not even consider those that are put off from applying to University. We believe universities still fail to truly cater for the needs of neurodiverse students. These statistics, and heartfelt stories, show that training and awareness is urgently needed.

Universities are autonomous institutions, independent from government. They are therefore responsible for their own decisions, including on the training and development needs of staff.

However, this government believes it is important that all students, including those who are neurodivergent and/or have a disability, receive an appropriate level of support wherever and whatever they choose to study. The government is committed to ensuring that all students receive the support they need to enable them to study alongside their fellow students on an equal basis.

Higher education (HE) providers must fulfil their responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010 by making reasonable adjustments for students with a disability, if they would otherwise be put at a substantial disadvantage in comparison with non-disabled persons. Therefore, disabled students who are neurodivergent should expect to have reasonable adjustments made by their HE provider to ensure that their needs are met through inclusive learning practices.

Where students are concerned that the appropriate support is not available, we expect student complaints and appeals processes to be operated flexibly, accessibly and sympathetically by providers to resolve any concerns. If the student is not satisfied with the provider’s final response to their complaint, and the provider is in England or Wales, they can ask the Office of the Independent Adjudicator for Higher Education to consider the complaint.

In terms of funding, Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) is available in addition to the standard support package, to help students with the additional costs they may face in HE because of their disability, including long-term health conditions, mental health conditions, or specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia.