Fears For Thousands Of Students

Poll suggests four in five students could drop out if disability support is cut too fast.

More than 90% of disabled students in the UK could be hit by planned cuts to support.

The UK government is considering withdrawing Disabled Student Allowances grants.

A poll suggests the move could lead to four in five students dropping out of college or university.

Victoria Short, managing director of Randstad Student and Worker Support, comments:

"We are concerned that these changes are being rushed through. If expected to pick up the baton for the rights of disabled students, then universities urgently need more information, and much more time.

"Tens of thousands of students would suffer if these reforms go ahead in the timescales planned. Universities could, in time, directly supply the same support as the centrally funded DSA. But this needs to be funded. Otherwise other activity will presumably be cut back in turn.

"What is certain is that students with disabilities are going to see significant changes, which could seriously affect their academic and life chances. Change on this scale deserves the time for careful consideration."

"Both universities and the government are to be praised for the progress that has already been made for students with disabilities, after more than twenty years of the Disabled Students Allowances (DSA). Moreover, in the current climate, many in the higher education sector recognise the pressing need to review all areas of government funding.

"But this is exactly why we must avoid rushed decisions and beware the danger of false economies."