Reasonable Adjustments: Helping You Thrive at Essex

University life should be exciting, rewarding, and accessible to everyone. That's where reasonable adjustments come in.

If you have a disability, long-term health condition, mental health condition, specific learning difference (such as dyslexia), autism, sensory impairment, or another support need, the University can work with you to remove barriers and help you get the most from your Essex experience.

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What are reasonable adjustments? What support is available? How do I get reasonable adjustments? Not yet diagnosed? Your information matters A quick reminder Need support?

What are reasonable adjustments?

Think of reasonable adjustments as practical changes that help level the playing field.

They're designed to make sure students can fully participate in their studies and university life without being disadvantaged by a disability or support need. Importantly, adjustments support you to demonstrate your abilities while still meeting the same learning outcomes as everyone else.

What sort of support is available?

Every student's situation is different, so support is considered on an individual basis. Depending on your needs, adjustments could include:

Exam and assessment arrangements
Adapted assessment conditions
Alternative assessment formats in some circumstances
Accessible learning materials
Timetabling and teaching location adjustments where practical
Additional wellbeing and study support

The exact support available will depend on your circumstances and the requirements of your course.

How do I get reasonable adjustments?

The sooner you let the University know about your support needs, the sooner support can be put in place.

You can:

Disclose your support needs when applying to Essex
Contact the Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service (SWIS) directly by emailing include@essex.ac.uk

You'll normally be asked to provide supporting evidence so that the University can understand your needs and recommend appropriate adjustments.

Not yet diagnosed?

Don't panic. If you're waiting for a formal assessment or diagnosis, the University may be able to offer temporary support measures while you're going through the process, provided you can share appropriate supporting information.

Your information matters

We know that talking about health conditions or disabilities can feel personal.

The University treats this information sensitively and only shares adjustment information with relevant staff who need it to help put support in place.

A quick reminder

Asking for support isn't getting an advantage. It's about ensuring you have a fair opportunity to succeed. Whether you've had support before or are exploring adjustments for the first time, help is available.

Essex has a legal and moral commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment where students can participate, engage and achieve their potential. Everyone's university journey is different. If something is getting in the way of your studies, reach out. Support is there to help you thrive, not just survive.

Top tip: You don't need to wait until you're struggling to ask about support. Getting in touch early can help make sure appropriate adjustments are in place when you need them.

Need support?

Email include@essex.ac.uk

Or visit the Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service (SWIS) to discuss your options and find out what support could work for you.