Posted 19 May 2025

Go Higher West Yorkshire’s (GHWY) Disabled Students’ Network has remained an active and supportive group for colleagues across the region since our last blog post. Much of our recent work has continued to focus on the ongoing impact of changes to the Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSAs). These changes have brought significant challenges, particularly in terms of the transition from Further Education (FE) to Higher Education (HE) and the continuity of support for disabled students once they enter university. 

Network members have shared their concerns about the complexities of new systems and processes, highlighting the strain they place on both students and support services. While these issues remain a concern, we are beginning to see signs of stability as institutions and students start to adjust. With that in mind, the Network is now turning its focus towards the future—with an emphasis on collaboration and the development of new projects. 

At our most recent meeting, we explored several exciting proposals aimed at enhancing support for disabled students. As part of our commitment to improving transitions into HE, we discussed the idea of developing a resource for parents and carers. Building on our existing Transitions Pack, this new guide would help families better understand the higher education landscape, enabling them to support their young people more effectively as they make the move into university life. 

Another priority area identified was improving the sharing of knowledge and best practice across institutions. There’s a constant stream of new research and policy updates in the disability support space, and it can be overwhelming to keep up. To help address this, we’re exploring the creation of a shared online space—a central hub where colleagues can access summaries of the latest studies, as well as practical tools, templates, and examples of effective practice. This would be a collaborative resource, encouraging professionals from both FE and HE to contribute and learn from one another, fostering a stronger sense of shared purpose. 

Work experience for disabled students also emerged as a key area for development. We discussed how institutions might work together more strategically to identify opportunities, build stronger employer links, and develop consistent processes that support students in accessing meaningful placements. There is strong enthusiasm for a collaborative approach here, recognising that many barriers to work experience are best addressed through joint effort and shared responsibility. 

With so many valuable ideas on the table, we’re now asking Network members to vote on which two projects we should prioritise over the next 12 months. This collaborative decision-making process ensures that our work remains relevant and impactful, aligned with the needs and priorities of the wider network. 

Above all, GHWYs Disabled Students’ Network continues to be a space where colleagues can connect, share experiences, and tackle challenges together. As we move into this next phase of work, we remain committed to supporting each other and improving access and outcomes for disabled students across the region. 

    

Simon Morris, University of Leeds, Assistant Head of Student Support & Co-chair of GHWYs Disabled Students’ Network