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Placement Support - Reasonable Adjustments Resource

This resource has been created to support students, staff and employers (both placement providers and apprenticeship providers) with discussions about reasonable adjustments on placements. The resource aims to enable positive, supportive and inclusive placement experiences. In the resource, you will find examples of reasonable adjustments you may want to discuss and some case studies.  We advise using this resource as early as possible before placements, so there’s enough time to make any agreed adjustments. This is a general resource, please use it with guidance specific to the course/placement. 
 
placement support resource logo showing an abstract depiction of people in a group contained within a circle

If you have any feedback on this resource please email disability-support@shu.ac.uk

The Equality Act 2010

 Under the Equality Act 2010, disabled students have a legal right to reasonable adjustments. These adjustments help make sure they can access their learning and show what they’re capable of during placements. 

All students must meet certain competence standards — these are the essential skills or abilities required for the course. While the standards themselves usually can't be changed, the way they are assessed and the support provided to help students meet them can be adjusted. 

Some courses also have requirements set by Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies (PSRBs), which may affect what adjustments are possible during placements. 

It’s important to know that not every adjustment will be possible in every placement setting. Disabled students are encouraged to play an active role in finding workable solutions, think about their strengths and needs, and be flexible when compromises are necessary.

Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)

Some students may be eligible for support through Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) during placements. However, DSA is not available for all placement types or courses. For example, it is not available to students studying Degree Apprenticeships.  Similarly, students on Sandwich Placements are unlikely to be eligible, but may be able to access alternative funding. Students are advised to check their eligibility and contact the Disabled Student Support team through Hallam Help to discuss DSA with a Disability Adviser.

Please use the left hand menu to navigate to the specific pages where you can read about example adjustments.