Latest News - February 2010

Thousands of disabled students still waiting for vital funds

Nearly 13,000 disabled students in England are waiting for the funds they need for specialist equipment – almost 4 months after the new term started and 2 months after the Government claimed the problem was fixed.

Figures from the Student Loans Company (SLC) show that, though some disabled students have been paid their grant, double the number haven't yet received their grant from the SLC for specialist equipment.

Disabled students in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland don't rely on the SLC for their allowance, but in England, of the 19,006 eligible applicants, only 6,507 have had their applications processed and approved by the SLC.

2,000 of those are still waiting for their 1st payment, and up to 16,000 disabled students are waiting to see at least a little of the money owed to them.

An increase in university applications during the recession coincided with amendments made to the way in which disabled students' 1st time application for funds are handled. Technical problems have added to the misery, with lost documents, delays in loan approvals and jammed telephone lines. However, the fact remains that students are left unable to cope.

Disabled Student Allowances (DSAs) are available for all UK students with a disability. The money can be used to pay for essentials like Braille paper or specialist computer equipment or even to pay for personal helpers on campus.

All disabled students are assessed before being allocated funds and the SLC is blaming the delay on funds reaching students on the assessment centres. However, the Chair of the National Network of Assessment Centres, Lesley Morrice, says this apportioning of blame is "unacceptable".

"…These delays are unprecedented. The SLC implemented changes without proper consultation and without appreciating the impact on students."

Shadow University and Skills Secretary David Willetts said: "Students deserve better – much better."

An inquiry into the loans delays has identified 'conspicuous failures' in the system and 2 managers have now left the SLC following a restructure.

We have assisted students in securing payment of the money owed to them and are keen to help others affected by the delay in payment of both disabled students allowance and other grants.

If you need legal advice regarding social care services, then please contact Maxwell Gillott Solicitors on 01524 596080 / 0845 456 6803 or e-mail office@mglaw.co.uk for more information on how we may be able to assist.

To find out more about how we can help you, please contact Maxwell Gillott Solicitors.