Handling student disclosure of a disability

Students often disclose disabilities, health conditions or Specific Learning Differences (e.g., dyslexia, dyspraxia) to members of staff they know. It is important that staff know how to handle a student’s disclosure.

What should I do if a student discloses a disability to me? 

Let the student know about our Service and suggest they register with us so we can discuss and arrange support that will help them with the challenges they may be facing with their studies as a result of their condition.  This could be in the form of adjustments for their studies, and if suitable, funded support for assistive technology of 1-1 support.

They will need to provide some form of supporting documentation.

If the condition is temporary (e.g., broken bones), we can put some support in place for them until they recover.  Direct students to contact us with details of what has happened and we can talk to them about how to set up support.  We are also happy for you to contact us with the information, if the student consents to this. 

Student insists on confidentiality

All students are entitled to confidentiality, but we would recommend you explain to them the pros and cons of disclosing their disability to our Service.  It may help to explain that you and the School are limited to what support they can put in place, and this may not be enough to help them complete their studies.  If a student has any questions about how our Service shares their information, you can direct them to our Privacy Notice.

Helping Distressed Students 

If you have serious concerns about a student’s emotional wellbeing there is helpful information regarding the support available in the Helping Distressed Students guide. 

If you think the student could harm themselves or others, and they still request confidentiality, Health and Safety concerns could override this request.

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