Seeing the recommendations for staffing levels certainly
concentrates the mind somewhat. One is also prompted to
reflect upon the HEFCEs proposal to fund disability support
based upon the number of DSA applications. As we know
having 1000 students declaring that they have disability,
many of which will be hidden (like mild asthma) or the wide
ranging "Disability not listed" is a dodgy basis on which
to base funding.
This again conjures up the concern that those responsible
for disability support will be "encouraged" to maximise DSA
applications. However, if we do go down this line I would
like to see clarification from HESA or the HEFCE about
which DSA students they want to see counted. I bet many
HEIs will be interpreting the number of students is receipt
of Student Disability Allowance (AKA Disabled Students
Allowance) count in all sorts of imaginative ways.
Bryan Jones
Equal Opportunities Adviser
London Guildhall University.
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