Physical Disability

A physical disability is any physical condition that affects one’s physical capacity, mobility, dexterity, or stamina.

According to the Office for Students, In 2017 13.2% of university students in the UK live with a physical disability.

Some examples of physical disabilities are:

    • Cerebral Palsy
    • Muscular Dystrophy
    • Spina Bifida

How can the University support you?

Before you start your studies we can:

  • meet with you to discuss your individual circumstances. You are welcome to bring family or a friend to this meeting
  • provide advice on the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)
  • help to secure suitable University accommodation
  • work with your local social services department and/or occupational therapist if required
  • advise on the medical evidence you will need to provide in order to access support

Depending on an assessment of your needs, by a DSA assessor or a disability advisor, support could include:

    • examination and assessment adjustments
    • arranging practical support workers
    • authorising campus parking permits
    • adaptations to the physical environment or provision of equipment to meet your individual needs
    • access to some assistive software on the University IT system
    • providing advice on applying for and accessing your DSA
    • liaising with your department about reasonable adjustments to course delivery to meet your individual needs
    • arranging for extended library loans
    • arranging a 1-1 library induction
    • provision of mentoring and/or study support skills
    • arranging awareness training to your department

What to do next?

If you are an Applicant:

Regardless of whether you use the disability box in your application, or mention your circumstances in your personal statement, you should use the Disability and Health Portal to share further information with us.

This will give us the opportunity to assess your requirements and arrange support as necessary in time for your studies to start.

Visiting the Campus

If you are an applicant we strongly recommend a visit to the University to gain a realistic understanding of campus accessibility.

Book your visit:

If you are a Current Student:

You should contact us directly via our accessing support page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Physical access to buildings on campus can vary, depending on the age and design of the facility and its location on the campus. We recommend you discuss your access requirements with a Disability Advisor as soon as possible.

You can find further information about the sport available at Loughborough below: 

Please contact us via our accessing support page and an Advisor will be in touch to discuss your diagnosis and support available to you.

You can check all your approved support here via the disability tab in your self-service portal.

There is a section in the Disability and Health Portal for you to note any accommodation requirements linked to your physical or mental health.

Please see our answers to frequently asked questions about specific accommodation requirements.

Please see our answers to frequently asked questions about specific accommodation requirements.

Last Updated: 1st December 2023