University of Nottingham & The Learning Support Centre

I have my DSA2 Entitlement letter and my support supplier is The Learning Support Centre

You’ve received your DSA2 Entitlement Letter – next steps:

  • Receive Notification of Entitlement Letter (DSA2) via email or post.
  • Contact the suppliers listed in your DSA2 letter (page 2-4). Your Assistive Technology supplier will arrange delivery of your spe.cialist equipment and software. Your Non-Medical Help support supplier can then arrange your initial appointment with your Study Skills Tutor and/or Specialist Mentor.
  • It is up to you to contact your supplier, as they do not get a notification from the Student Loans Company. If you would like help arranging your confirmed support, your university will be able to provide this

Feeling overwhelmed and not sure how to access your DSA support?

Click here for more information on who to reach out to for help at University.

What is Mentoring?

Mentoring allows you time each week to focus on you and work creatively with a professional to develop strategies to succeed.

The foundation for mentoring is the relationship between the mentor and mentee.  Over time, a supportive and respectful relationship of trust is developed allowing the mentee to explore issues and work on overcoming barriers in a safe environment.  The mentor supports the mentee in problem-solving, decision making and testing out new strategies.  The mentoring sessions offer opportunities for reflection and constructive feedback to enhance the personal development of the mentee.

Mentors will see you for a regular meeting agreed in advance to support you in overcoming any barriers that are affecting your studies. This could range from helping to organise time, starting assignments, discussing problems or help with exam preparation. Your mentor will support you to enjoy your time at university and make the most of the opportunities available.

What do our mentees say?

“My Mentor is a wonderful [and] has taught me many coping techniques which I regularly use, both in my PhD studies and in my life more generally. His deep understanding of a wide range of mental health difficulties is evident, and his knowledge of techniques to assist in these are vast. In addition to the cognitive and mindfulness techniques he has taught me, he helps me to set goals from week to week with my studies. I would ordinarily find this too much pressure, and would be afraid of setting goals for fear of “failing”. However, I don’t feel this with my Mentor with The Learning Support Centre. He has somehow helped to turn goal setting into a purely positive thing. He is also very good at listening and is truly compassionate, whilst always professional. I am very grateful to have him supporting me through my PhD.”

Emily (Veterinary Medicine and Science PhD, University of Nottingham)

 

“My Mentor is very knowledgeable and an excellent support to me.”

Meghan (BA Neuroscience, University of Nottingham)

 

“My Mentor is a top-notch listener and adviser.”

Florence (BA English, University of Nottingham)

What is Specialist Study Skills Support?

Our team of specialist Study Skills tutors understand how you learn and potential barriers to learning. Their support will enable you to fulfil your potential at university.

Your support is tailored to your individual learning styles and needs. It is delivered on a one-to-one basis to develop core study skills and competencies, in order to support you with independent skills and strategies for life.

We can help you develop your academic skills and confidence in areas such as:

  • Planning and organisation
  • Time management
  • Action planning and target setting
  • Reading and research techniques
  • Academic writing skills
  • Procrastination and how to get started
  • Developing spelling lists
  • Proofreading techniques
  • Referencing
  • Revision strategies
  • Work output and delivery
  • Presentation skills

Our team will also keep in touch to ensure that you are happy with the support you are receiving.

Useful links

Access key disability support services and guidance to help you navigate your academic journey. Click below for more information.

Disability support services

Disability Support Guide (Moodle) Log in to the site | moodle.Nottingham

How do I continue my support in the workplace?

Access to Work

Access to Work is a Government-funded scheme to help pay towards Assistive Technology and support in the workplace. More information about Access to Work can be found here.

Some employers choose to fund equipment and support themselves rather than using the Access to Work scheme. If you feel that you need support to do your job to the best of your ability, it is a good idea to have a confidential meeting with your line manager or someone in the People / HR department to find out what your options are.

You are also welcome to contact us for advice on the best way to approach your employer about workplace support.

“Always helpful, professional and with a keen interest in the individual.”

The Learning Support Centre logo with the words 'Neurodivergent and Disability Specialists'

Helen Garry

“The support I received exceeded my expectations. The methods I have learnt have allowed me to work faster and plan my work in a more effective manner.”

A head and shoulders profile photo.

Jane Smith

“I have learnt so much, and I feel more confident supporting learners in this area of expertise.”

A head and shoulders profile photo.

Olivia Brown