We have just set up a working group to look at these issues, under the auspices of the Eq. Opps. committee and chaired by the Head of Student Services. There is a sharing of responsibilities re this group of students by the disability Adviser, student services/counselling and we are developing guidelines. We would be interested (and grateful) to receive any information, particularly re confidentiality codes that HEIs are working to.
many thanks, in anticipation,
Hazel Devereux
Edge Hill HEI
Ormskirk
L39 4QP
01695 584746
>>> David Laycock <[log in to unmask]> 12/20 6:28 PM >>>
Anna said:
> We're looking at introducing mental health policies/protocols and have
> been looking at various HEFCE funded initiatives in this area and
> other institutions guidelines.
>
> Something that has come up is responsibility for producing and
> recommending such guidance and support. We're trying to find out who
> has responsibility for co-ordinating support for students with mental
> health difficulties in other institutions.
>
> Is it seen as the role of Disability Coordinator, Counselling, the
> Medical Centre, or is provision brought in from external support
> networks?
I've been going round different meetings speaking about NADO.
Given the nature of the organisation, the role of the disability
officer/adviser/co-ordinator inevitably crops up. I've made a point of
asking if those present feel qualified to deal with clients with a
history of mental illness. With few exceptions (who turn out to be
people with specific and appropriate backgrounds) the answer is a
resounding NO. Most see no alternative but to build strong links
with their university medical services and counselling teams. But I
get the feeling they would prefer someone other than themselves to
take the lead.
Certainly, if traditional DOs etc are to take a central role then there
is an urgent need for substantial and appropriate training. On the
other this may not be the most effective way to go. So who
decides?
Dave Laycock
Head of CCPD
Computer Centre for People with Disabilities
University of Westminster
72 Great Portland Street
London W1N 5AL
tel. 020 7911-5161
fax. 020 7911-5162
WWW home page: http://www.wmin.ac.uk/ccpd/
|