Why Students Don’t Claim The DSA

A 2020 mental health report published by Randstad (view here) showed results of a survey of over 1,800 students about their current state of mental wellbeing. The results of this study show a shocking deterioration of mental health among individuals in higher education. As much as 64 percent of respondents claimed that their studies and the University lifestyle has negatively affected their health.

Further analysis of the report showed that more than half of respondents had considered leaving their course but they said that access to DSA (Disabled Students’ Allowance), as well as the psychological support they received proved to be enough to convince them to stick with their studies.

A different report from the Department for Education in England, as discussed in this BBC News article revealed 60% of eligible students had never heard of Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSA) – That is a surprisingly high number of eligible students that aren’t aware of the existence of the DSA and how they can go about claiming benefits.

In a world where the pressure associated with higher education can tilt some students over the edge, the Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSA) can prove to be the edge you need to see your education through.

Apart from simply not knowing the DSA exists, we have compiled below some of the other reasons that students may not apply…

more-reasons-why-students-dont-claim-the-dsa

Other Reasons Why Students Don’t Claim The DSA

  • Students assume that they have to be registered as disabled to claim – Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to be registered as disabled to claim the DSA.
  • Students often have a misunderstanding of the term disabled – You’re disabled under the Equality Act 2010 if you have a physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on your ability to do normal daily activities.
  • Thinking that other people deserve it more – Students should understand that applying for the DSA does not prevent other more deserving people from getting the help they need. Individuals who apply for the DSA are screened to ensure that the assistance is given where it is most needed, and the amount dispensed is tailored to each person.
  • They don’t think it’s going to help – What support you receive is tailored specifically to your disability. Our assessors have a great deal of experience with a range of disabilities and we are confident that whatever we do recommend will make your studies a lot easier for you.
  • It’s embarrassing – One of the more common reasons preventing students from applying for the DSA is the fear that it would reveal a personal issue that they’d rather keep private. The process for applying for and receiving the DSA is kept as confidential as possible, and no personal details are revealed to the university unless the applicant wishes it.

The DSA can be a lifeline when you need it the most, giving you the opportunity for success in your journey in higher education.

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