Disability and Dyslexia Support Service (DDSS)

We're a specialist and friendly team that supports disabled applicants and students (including those undertaking postgraduate research), and the staff working with them.

Accessing disability support

3 mature students working in the library

How to access University disability support

Accessing disability support at the ±¬ÁÏTV is simple. Follow our three easy steps to receive tailored help throughout your University journey.

Access University disability support
Students

Who we can support

We can support you if you have a long-term impairment or condition that has an impact on your studies.

Person writing on paper in a café

Providing evidence of your disability

Details of the evidence you need to provide to access disability support, and how to obtain it.
Two students stood at the student support desk in 9 Mappin street speaking to a member of professional services staff

Book an appointment

How to set up a Disability and Dyslexia Support Service (DDSS) appointment, and what to expect.

Support we offer

What support is available?

Some examples of support we can offer.

Learning Support Plans (LSPs)

A Learning Support Plan (LSP) is the document we share with your academic department or school to confirm that you're a disabled student and are entitled to support, to ensure that you're not disadvantaged during your studies or research.

Sharing disability information

What we do with your information.

Dyslexia & SpLD Support

Support for students who have dyslexia or another specific learning difference (SpLD).

Support worker service

The types of support workers available if you have a disability (eg notetakers, sign language interpreters), and who to contact.

Student Inclusion Officers

Student Inclusion Officers (SIOs) are members of University staff based in your school who are a designated point of contact for disabled students.
Students talking in a study space.

Transition to University

Starting university can feel exciting, but it can also be challenging. We are here to help and support disabled applicants to make the transition to the ±¬ÁÏTV.

Transition to University

Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)

Apply for Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSA)

A DSA can help to pay for any extra study-related costs which you incur at University due to a disability (eg one-to-one support or specialist software).

Information for DSA needs assessors

Information to help you to advise students on what support is available, and ensure that your recommendations are appropriate to our institution.

±¬ÁÏTV the DDSS

Our terminology

Why we use the term 'disabled students' and why (and how) we distinguish between 'disability' and 'impairment'.

Our approach to inclusive education

The University is committed to providing an equitable and supportive learning experience for all students regardless of their background or circumstances.

Contact us

We offer ongoing support that is tailored to your situation and requirements. Contact us to talk about the support we can put in place that would work for you. 

Telephone: +44 114 222 1303

Email: disability.info@sheffield.ac.uk

University and campus life

Attendance matters: a guide for disabled students

Guidance for disabled students on the University's attendance expectations, managing absences and accessing additional support.

Talk to a current student

To talk to a current disabled student about disability support or University life in general, go to Key Topics > Disabled Students via this link.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme

A way for people with hidden disabilities to show that they may need extra support and understanding.