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Needs Assessment Information

What is a DSA needs assessment?

The assessment is not a test, it is an informal conversation with somebody who has expertise in supporting students with disabilities. You will be asked questions about the way you work and will be encouraged to discuss any needs you may have or difficulties you may be experiencing on your course of study.  The assessor will then talk to you about the types of support that can help and will provide demonstrations of any software that may be useful.

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How do I arrange a needs assessment?

If you are funded by any organisation except SFE or SFW, either send us an email or fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch to help you arrange an appointment.

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Where do I need to go for the assessment?

We offer remote DSA needs assessments online via video calling (using programs such as Microsoft Teams or Zoom).  If you would prefer to meet somebody in person, please contact us and we can advise as to our nearest office location.

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What happens after my needs assessment?

The assessor will write a report outlining the recommendations and the reasoning behind them.  The report is quality assured and proofread by the team at VIVA Assessments, then it will be sent to you and your funding body.  We can also sent a copy to your disability advisor at university if you request it.  The funding body will then process the report and contact you to advise how to put the support into place.

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Do I need to pay for my DSA needs assessment?

No - we will charge a fee for your assessment, but we will invoice your university or the funding body directly.

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What if I have any queries or if my needs change?

You should contact either your Disability Officer or your DSA needs assessor.  While you are still in education, your assessor will be available for you to contact for up to five years after the date of your initial assessment.

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