Children and Families Minister Edward Timpson MP cited Disability Rights UK’s publication in Children and Families Bill debate
The debate concerned the length of time it takes to go through an assessment which causes delays in putting support in place.
Children and Families Minister Edward Timpson MP said -
There are also examples of the system working well, and we need to spread good practice more widely. For example, "Into Higher Education 2013", a guide for disabled students who are thinking about studying in higher education, which is published by Disability Rights UK, contains a case study of a young man with Asperger's syndrome who is studying for a foundation degree. He said:
"Being a disabled student at college has never really stood out as my sole characteristic. Perhaps it is noticeable to some people, maybe even many, but it never really got in the way of anything. Tutors and support workers were always fantastic at what they did. They were supportive and understanding, as well as great people to get along with. If I ever needed assistance, they were always there for me."
I am sure that the hon. Lady wishes that that had been the case in her situation. The young man continued:
"The support I received was funded through Disabled Students' Allowances (DSAs). Applying for DSAs with honest answers about my condition and the help I needed meant they could judge what assistance was necessary at college and at home without anything being redundant."
Into Higher Education 2013 is a guide for disabled students thinking about studying in higher education. It deals with common questions such as whether the college or university will be accessible, how to choose a course and what support will be available.
Although we are pleased that the Minister highlighted our fantastic publication which provides examples of good practice it is essential this good practice is replicated in reality possibly by amendments to the Bill or the Code of Practice.