BIS re-opens comments on DSA change and cuts document due to unfortunate error

The deadline for comments on the draft DSA Guidance has been extended to 20th February. This is the document that contains cuts to students’ access to printers, scanners and book allowance during a period when universities have won reprieve from support worker cuts on the grounds that they needed more time to organize themselves in order to meet legal duties. It also confirms that students will be expected to contribute £200 towards a computer to run assistive software that is recommended as part of their needs assessment. It has been very difficult for those who work with disabled students to ascertain whether there is or has been appropriate consultation or notification to stakeholders and those who will be affected by these changes. The deadline has been extended because BIS acknowledge that information was simply not available. Comments and feedback goes to disabledstudentsallowances@bis.gsi.gov.uk