Student Support Service

By providing support for students with Asperger syndrome who are in further and higher education, our aim is to ensure that their transition onto courses is smooth and that necessary support is in place. This involves working closely with both the student and the staff in their chosen place of study.

Support details

Support is delivered on an individually-tailored basis dependent on the needs of the student. It is flexible and might be increased at times of change or potential stress such as around examinations, or after staff changes. Funding for student support can be organised through students' Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) or via their place of study.

Topics covered with students could include:

• orientation
• managing change
• disability awareness
• emotion management
• timetabling and structure
• independent learning skills.

In addition, other areas of support could include:

• assistance with work placements
• training can be provided for staff who provide learning support to people with Asperger syndrome
• Disability Equality Scheme/Disability Discrimination Act training/support
• autism awareness raising training for staff and mentors
• support with applying for the DSA
• preparing for onward transition to further study and/or employment.

For further information, please contact:

Lee Gilson
EQUAL Project Manager
Prospects
The National Autistic Society Scotland
First Floor, 109 Hope Street
Glasgow G2 6LL
Tel: 0141 221 8090 
Email: lee.gilson@nas.org.uk

Lesley Smith
Social Development and Supported Employment
NAS Scotland Student Support Service
Suite 1
30 Waterloo Quay
Aberdeen AB11 5BS
Tel: 01224 576822
Email: lesley.smith@nas.org.uk

Phyllis McWhirr
Social Development and Supported Employment
NAS Scotland Student Support Service
Fairways House
Fairways Business Park
Castle Heather
Inverness IV2 6AA
Tel: 01463 716003
Email: phyllis.mcwhirr@nas.org.uk

Related resources

• University: choosing and applying
  
• University: starting at
  
• University: how to support students with Asperger syndrome
  

• The Equal Employability website
• The Routes to Employment website

• Supporting students with Asperger syndrome: suggested further reading (DOC)