Sara used to get tired easily during her A-Levels and would come home from school in more pain than usual. During her foundation year, Sara had an x-ray and an official diagnosis of scoliosis and fibromyalgia was made. It didn’t affect Sara too much during school as she was still growing, but as she was starting an art degree, especially working with clay, Sara knew she would require a good quality chair.

Sara began her DSA journey by asking for a chair from the Disability Services. They informed her that she would be eligible to apply for the DSA. Sara didn’t expect she could be eligible for so much more.

Finding A2B Assessments through the government website, Sara found the service professional from the beginning. Sara had her assessment booked in quickly and easily. Her assessment was over the phone; an option that conveniently allowed Sara to move around whilst talking to ease her pain. During the last two years, Sara has had contact with many healthcare professionals, leaving her feeling frustrated, annoyed, sad, and not listened to. Speaking with her assessor, Sheena, Sara reflects saying “she was so great to talk to”. From the beginning, Sara was told what the process was, and how she could ask questions when she needed to. Sara felt listened to and had a conversation where she wasn’t interrupted. Everything was explained clearly and the process post-assessment was clear.

One of the main positives is that Sara can now do her art and it isn’t as painful. The journey to and from university used to be almost impossible, especially if she needed to carry equipment. Having a taxi to take away that stress and pain has been so amazing and she is “in shock that this is available to her. Even if she didn’t have anything else, the taxi has been such a big help.” It’s a huge weight lifted off her shoulders having this in place.

Sara found out about the DSA on a whim and she is unsure if she would still be at University if it wasn’t for the support in place. And travelling easily to get on campus. Sometimes she wakes up and is exhausted for no reason and she would be stuck at home in pain. Wouldn’t do it at the best of her potential and it would be a lot of pain  – she’s still in pain but not compared to what she used to have. It’s helped a lot. 

Advice: “Just do it! Some people can be scared or anxious – don’t worry this is what a2b is for. They’ve seen enough students, any questions you ask and they’ll answer. Sara recommends students get their DSA in place as soon as possible because it will help them immensely through their uni experience.

Although Sara is still going through the process of her condition with imminent spinal surgery, she can be reassured that it won’t affect her DSA or her course. She has the security of the equipment being in place so she can continue to enjoy her art, which is a big stress relief.