Written question asked by Lord Addington (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 18 December 2017, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 4 January 2018. It was answered by Viscount Younger of Leckie (Conservative) on Thursday, 21 December 2017 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Students: Disability

Question: To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the compliance of all higher education providers with their duties under the Equality Act 2010 and Human Rights Act 1998 in regard to disabled students.

Answer

Higher education (HE) providers are independent and autonomous bodies, and as such are responsible for fulfilling their duties under both acts. Recent changes to Disabled Students’ Allowances sought to encourage all HE providers to fulfil their responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010. However, it is for higher education institutions to ensure adherence. The Higher Education Funding Council for England recently published a review of the provision of support to disabled students, which contains examples of good practice from across the sector. It also contains recommendations that give clear indications of actions that can help HE providers improve their offer to disabled students.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission provides technical guidance on the Equality Act, and the Office of the Independent Adjudicator outlines good practice guidance for universities to consider when supporting disabled students. The Equality Challenge Unit supports equality and diversity for staff and students in HE, and also publishes technical guidance on the Equality Act.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL4258
Session: 2017-19
Subjects: Disability Equality Human rights Higher education Students
Legislation: Equality Act 2010; Human Rights Act 1998
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Students: Disability

Secondary information

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