Disabled Students Personal Growth

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Pursuing Higher Education as a Disabled Individual: Embracing New Trades and Skills through Open University

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Higher education is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. For disabled individuals, it can be a transformative avenue, not only to acquire new trades and skills but also to open doors to employment opportunities. In the United Kingdom, where the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) sanctions can affect benefits, gaining qualifications through an open university can provide both economic stability and a sense of accomplishment.

The Importance of Learning New Trades and Skills

Learning new trades or skills has several benefits for disabled individuals:

1. Increased Employability: Acquiring new skills can make you more attractive to potential employers. With the rise of digital and remote work, many roles that can be performed from home are becoming available, making it easier for those with disabilities to participate in the workforce.
2. Personal Fulfillment: Learning something new can be incredibly rewarding. It provides a sense of purpose and achievement, which is particularly important for individuals whose disabilities might have previously limited their opportunities.
3. Economic Independence: By securing employment through new skills, individuals can achieve greater economic independence, reducing their reliance on benefits.
4. Avoiding DWP Sanctions: Engaging in educational activities can also help avoid sanctions from the DWP. The DWP may sanction benefits if they believe a claimant is not actively seeking work. Enrolling in a course and demonstrating commitment to improving employability can be seen as actively working towards getting a job.

Open University: A Pathway to Education from Home

Open universities offer a flexible, accessible, and inclusive approach to higher education, making them an excellent choice for disabled individuals. Here’s why:

1. Flexibility: Open universities allow students to study at their own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those with disabilities who may need to manage their study time around medical appointments, treatments, or fluctuating health conditions.
2. Accessibility: Courses are designed with accessibility in mind. Materials are often available in various formats (e.g., large print, audio) to accommodate different needs. Additionally, online platforms used by open universities are generally designed to be navigable by those using assistive technologies.
3. Support Services: Open universities typically offer robust support services, including academic advising, disability support, and technical assistance. This support helps ensure that all students have the tools they need to succeed.
4. Cost-Effective: Studying from home can reduce additional costs associated with traditional university attendance, such as transportation and accommodation. Financial aid and scholarships specifically for disabled students can also help make education more affordable.

Steps to Enroll in an Open University

1. Research Courses: Identify courses that align with your interests and career goals. Consider both short-term and long-term programs that can provide the skills you need.
2. Check Accessibility: Ensure the university offers the necessary accommodations for your disability. Contact the university’s disability services office to discuss your needs.
3. Financial Planning: Explore financial aid options, including government grants, scholarships, and bursaries available to disabled students.
4. Application Process: Follow the application procedures of the chosen university. This may include submitting prior educational records, a personal statement, and documentation of your disability to ensure proper support.
5. Engage with Support Services: Once enrolled, actively engage with the university’s support services to maximize your educational experience.

Here is a list of 30 useful links that can help individuals in the UK embark on their learning journey:

1. The Open University
   • open.ac.uk
2. FutureLearn
   • futurelearn.com
3. Coursera
   • coursera.org
4. edX
   • edx.org
5. Udemy
   • udemy.com
6. Khan Academy
   • khanacademy.org
7. Learn Direct
   • learndirect.com
8. National Careers Service
   • nationalcareers.service.gov.uk
9. Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSA)
   • gov.uk/disabled-students-allowances-dsa
10. Student Finance England
    • gov.uk/student-finance
11. University of the Arts London (UAL) Online Courses
    • arts.ac.uk/study-at-ual/short-courses/online-courses
12. OpenLearn – Free Learning from The Open University
    • open.edu/openlearn
13. BBC Learning
    • bbc.co.uk/learning
14. City Lit – Adult Education College in London
    • citylit.ac.uk
15. Hotcourses – UK’s Largest Course Database
    • hotcourses.com
16. Skills for Life – Government Advice on Skills
    • gov.uk/government/collections/skills-for-life-campaign
17. British Dyslexia Association
    • bdadyslexia.org.uk
18. National Extension College (NEC)
    • nec.ac.uk
19. Institute of Continuing Education, University of Cambridge
    • ice.cam.ac.uk
20. University of Oxford Continuing Education
    • conted.ox.ac.uk
21. National Extension College (NEC)
    • nec.ac.uk
22. The Skills Toolkit – Free Courses from the Government
    • theskillstoolkit.campaign.gov.uk
23. Reed Courses
    • reed.co.uk/courses
24. Shaw Academy
    • shawacademy.com
25. University of London Distance Learning
    • london.ac.uk/courses
26. Coursera for Refugees and Asylum Seekers
    • coursera.org/refugees
27. UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service)
    • ucas.com
28. Prospects – Career Advice and University Courses
    • prospects.ac.uk
29. Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) Support Providers
    • dsa-qag.org.uk
30. TES – Education Jobs, News, and Courses
    • tes.com

Student Finance UK

• https://www.studentfinancewales.co.uk (WALES)
• Student finance login – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) (ENGLAND)
• Contact Student Finance England – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• Apply for student finance – mygov.scot (SCOTLAND)
• Student Finance Northern Ireland (studentfinanceni.co.uk) (NORTHERN IRELAND)

USA Resources:

• https://bestaccreditedcolleges.org (USA)
• https://www.intelligent.com/ (USA)

These resources can provide a variety of educational opportunities, financial support, and career advice to help you succeed in your learning journey.

Conclusion

Pursuing higher education through an open university presents a viable pathway for disabled individuals to learn new trades and skills, enhancing employability and personal growth. By embracing this opportunity, you can work towards financial independence, avoid potential DWP sanctions, and gain a sense of achievement and purpose. With the right resources and support, higher education can be a life-changing experience that opens new doors to a brighter future.

If you are able to travel, enrolling in a local university may be an excellent option to consider. However, it is crucial to evaluate all options carefully before making a decision, as the demands of commuting and attending classes in person may impact your health and well-being. Balancing study commitments with health needs is essential to ensure a positive and productive academic experience. Zena, a writer for disabledentrepreneur.uk, is currently studying at Cardiff Metropolitan University and plans to pursue her Master’s later this year, a University she highly recommends. Her experience underscores the importance of selecting a supportive institution that can accommodate your needs.

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