• Overview

    • On this page:

      • What is Access Solent, who we support and what is available
      • Advice from past students

    • Welcome to Access Solent


    • Current students can find out more information about setting up support on this SOL page, the Student Support App, or by booking a an appointment on this SOL page. We are unable to take incoming phone calls.

      See 'Book Appointment' tab to book an in-person, phone or MS Teams appointment

    • What is Access Solent?

      Access Solent is Solent University's disability and neurodiversity advice service for students and staff supporting students.

      Our aim is to remove barriers and support students to reach their full academic potential.

    • How can we help?

      We provide information, advice and guidance for disabled students during their time at Solent, as well as access to on-campus support and facilities.

      University is different from school and college and may present new challenges. Therefore we recommend you check with us what support is available, even if you feel your disability will not affect your studies.

      Check out the rest of this site to find out about all the support that is available, before you make a decision.

    • Who can ask for support?

      Anyone with the following declarations is eligible:

      • specific learning difficulties (e.g. dyslexia, ADHD)
      • chronic or long-term medical conditions (e.g. epilepsy, diabetes)
      • physical or sensory impairments (e.g. cerebral palsy, hearing impairment)
      • mental health conditions (e.g. depression, bipolar)
      • autistic spectrum declarations
      • temporary injuries (e.g. broken wrist)

    • What support is available?

      We offer:

      • A range of activities, workshops and facilities
      • Confidential information and advice to prospective and current disabled students
      • Advice on applying for Disabled Students' Allowance or other funding for academic disability support
      • Screenings for specific learning difficulties (e.g. dyslexia)
      • Advice about diagnostic assessment
      • Classroom support and exam arrangements
      • Short term loans of equipment including digital voice recorders and laptops with assistive technology
      • Liaison with teaching staff (with written permission)
      • Events supporting transition into Higher Education
      • Information and advice for staff who are supporting students


      We can't:

      • Provide classroom teaching assistants.
      • Arrange, advise on or provide personal care support for daily living needs. This comes from the student's home local authority or NHS team.
      • Provide ongoing pastoral support. The University has a Therapy and Mental Health Team.
      • Set up software on students' laptops / equipment or provide technical advice / support. The Learning Technologies Team can help students with this.
      • Make a diagnosis or arrange a diagnostic assessment; we can advise students on how they can pursue a diagnostic assessment or obtain medical evidence.
      • Provide information about an applicant or current student to a third party or member of staff without written consent from the student / applicant. 

    • Advice from students

      The videos below contain stories from some of our successful graduates and their advice to other students on accessing University support.

      Lucinda's Student Journey

      Lucinda is a Solent University graduate in BSc Hons Geography and Environmental Studies. This is her student journey and advice for other students on accessing disability support at University.



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