The Learner Development Service only works with disabled students as defined by the Equality Act 2010. This act came in to law in October 2010.  It replaces previous legislation, such as the Disability Discrimination Act 1995

The act states that a person has a disability if:

• they have a physical or mental impairment
• the impairment has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to perform normal day-to-day activities

For the purposes of the Act, these words have the following meanings:

• 'substantial' means more than minor or trivial
• 'long-term' means that the effect of the impairment has lasted or is likely to last for at least twelve months (there are special rules covering recurring or fluctuating conditions)
• 'normal day-to-day activities' include everyday things like eating, washing, walking and going shopping

People who have had a disability in the past that meets this definition are also protected by the Act.

Progressive conditions considered to be a disability
There are additional provisions relating to people with progressive conditions. People with HIV, cancer or multiple sclerosis are protected by the Act from the point of diagnosis. People with some visual impairments are automatically deemed to be disabled. (https://www.gov.uk/disabled-students-allowances-dsas)

(Referenced from DirectGov - 4th April 2011)

"Students who are likely to fall within the definition of disability should therefore contact the Learner Development Service at the earliest opportunity for appropriate assessment and support."

Support for Students with Temporary Injuries

Particularly around exam time, a number of departments, faculties and individual students contact the Learner Development Service concerning individuals who have temporary injuries/disabilities.
In line with the MMU Regulations, guidelines and procedures on examination and assessment arrangements for disabled students (as defined by the Equality Act 2010):

Students who require alternative arrangements due to sudden illness or temporary disability should contact their Head of Department as soon as possible. Any such request must be supported by medical evidence. Where for valid reason it is not possible to make alternative arrangements in such cases, the Head of Department may arrange for the assessment(s) concerned to be postponed.

Where a department decides to provide alternative arrangements for a student with a temporary disability (for example extra time, separate room, word processor or scribe etc) it is the department's responsibility to organise and fund this support.

If you have any questions, please contact the Learner Development Service.