Page 8 - RVC Support for Students 2015

1.2 The application process – disclosing a disability
If you are applying for a course you might feel reluctant to note on the form that you have dyslexia, dyspraxia or any other disability.
All UK institutions are much more aware about disability issues and have gained experience from supporting thousands of students with all kinds of disabilities, so we encourage you to tell us about your needs. Plus, it is the best way of making sure that you receive the right support from the start of your course.
ALL students are sent a health questionnaire to complete once an offer has been made. These are then viewed privately by Occupational Health (OH) to see whether an appointment with them is necessary. It is essential
to complete this form and return this by the required deadline. Occupational health professionals aim to find out the impact of your work on your health, and where necessary, specific considerations are made.
If appropriate, an initial assessment (usually by health questionnaire/s) is made, followed by a request
for a medical report from your doctor (GP) or consultant
and an appointment with the Occupational Health Doctor if needed. Information from your GP or consultant does require your written consent. The aim is to ensure your condition is not aggravated whilst at College and to identify if any additional assistance is needed.
Sharing Information and confidentiality
Your application will still be given due consideration by the RVC if you include information about
a learning difference, a health condition or a disability. In fact, we need to receive any information you have about special requirements as early as possible as this can take time to arrange. We can also advise you about extra time procedures, funding available and other useful support, so that it is in place before you begin your studies.
Anything you tell us regarding
your disability or health condition will be dealt with in the strictest of confidence. The College will only share this information on a ‘need to know’ basis. We may need to disclose information about your disability to another department so that support can be arranged. An example of this may be arranging extra time for examinations. If you would like any details to remain confidential between you and a particular department or member of staff, the College will attempt
to provide any necessary support confidentially. In some cases, however, this may not be possible and the level of support you receive may be affected.
It is also an expectation that if you are aware of any circumstances which may impact on your ability to perform academically or in practice, you will raise these. The College wants you to succeed and with early knowledge, we can help you achieve your goals.
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