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Nearly 6000 students with declared disabilities go on a work placement as part of their university course each year. On average that is more than 60 from each of the 90 HEIs that provide placement opportunities. The DDA (1995) states that you must take ‘reasonable steps’ to ensure that disabled students are not placed at a ‘substantial disadvantage’ in comparison to someone who is not disabled. This staff development session will inform university staff (placement, disability and equal opportunities managers) of their legal responsibilities to these students and advise on how best to anticipate and prepare themselves and potential placement employers for a whole range of disabilities that may affect students at their institution. Practical advice will be given with regards to positively engaging disabled students and their needs, as well as managing the placements themselves, covering issues such as disclosure, confidentiality and support. In addition, gender and race issues will also be explored looking at ensuring equal opportunities for all students. The event, entitled ‘Equal Opportunities for Work Placements’, will be taking place on Tuesday 6 November at University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield. ASET is the professional association for placement and employability staff, an educational charity which represents the 1300 members of staff across the UK involved in the management of work placements. We hope to welcome many individuals from equal opportunities and disability support services, as well as our traditional placement representation, to help promote complementary and comprehensive management of these areas. For more information and to book places, please go to: www.asetonline.org/events.htm or contact me at the ASET Office ([log in to unmask] and 0114 221 2902). Best wishes Keith Keith Fildes Company Administrator ASET (1982) Ltd 3 Westbrook Court Sharrow Vale Road Sheffield S11 8YZ Tel: 0114 221 2902 Fax: 0114 221 2903 Email: [log in to unmask] www.asetonline.org