University students are currently facing significant financial hardship due to soaring living costs, and for disabled students, this struggle is even greater. As part of the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) support scheme, disabled students are now required to pay a £200 contribution toward essential equipment, such as laptops. While these devices are crucial tools that aid accessibility, improve productivity, and support equal participation in academics, this mandatory fee exacerbates financial stress for students who are already navigating tight budgets.

This requirement is particularly unfair amid the cost-of-living crisis, as many disabled students are already dealing with additional expenses related to their specific needs. Unlike standard student support, DSA is meant to remove barriers to learning, so an extra cost undermines the very purpose of this support by imposing a financial barrier.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has released a report on the experiences of students in England during the 2022-2023 academic year, specifically focusing on the impact of the rising cost of living. The report highlights how rising prices for essentials, coupled with student loans that have not kept pace with inflation, are forcing students to make significant sacrifices, including cutting back on food and essentials, taking on debt 

This £200 contribution only adds to their concerns. The financial strain and anxiety caused by this additional cost can be detrimental to students’ well-being and academic performance, leading to feelings of isolation and a lack of support.

Disabled students are disproportionately impacted by the £200 DSA equipment contribution because they are less likely to hold part-time jobs to help cover their expenses. For many, balancing academic demands with a part-time job is particularly challenging due to health-related barriers, accessibility issues, and the need to manage their conditions effectively.

Many disabled students face unpredictable health symptoms that can fluctuate in severity, making it difficult to commit to a regular work schedule. Some have conditions that limit their physical energy or require medical appointments, treatments, or even rest breaks that prevent them from working the typical hours available in student-friendly part-time roles. Additionally, finding accessible employment that accommodates their specific needs and schedules can be difficult, as many workplaces still lack the flexibility or physical accessibility necessary for disabled employees.

This reduced capacity to work makes the financial burden of the £200 contribution even more significant for disabled students, many of whom are already managing increased costs due to their disabilities. The requirement is effectively punishing students who, due to their health and disability needs, face barriers to earning supplementary income. Removing this fee would alleviate some of the financial pressures they face and help create a fairer academic environment.

We urge the relevant authorities to reconsider this fee and fully fund the DSA-provided equipment, relieving disabled students of this unfair financial burden. Please sign this petition to support our students, promote equal access to education, and foster an inclusive academic environment.