Transitioning into university life

Accessing support from university services

The process for accessing support at university is different to the process of accessing support at school or college.

How much support you get will depend on what you want and need. It is your responsibility to make sure you have access to the support you need during your studies. You should contact Disability Service if you need support.

Also, if you are eligible for Specialist 1:1 Mentoring through DSA, make sure you have contacted your mentoring provider to arrange this support.

Types of support

Teaching and learning on your course

• You do not need to put your hand up to ask to leave a lecture or seminar, you can just stand up and leave.
• You are not allocated seats, although you could be as a reasonable adjustment.
• You do not need to phone in sick or let someone know if you are not going to be able to attend (unless you are on a professional practice placement). You could send a courtesy email if you want.
• Many lectures are recorded so if you were unable to attend you can often watch them back at a later date.
• Talk to your tutors if you are unsure about what is expected from you.

Independence skills

• If you are moving away from home, consider if you need to develop any independence skills and give yourself plenty of time to practice tasks such as laundry, cooking, and shopping before term starts.
• The University sends communication via a range of channels. You are expected to check your university email account, MYUWE and Blackboard regularly both during and outside of term time.
• We are unable to share information about your studies or your circumstances to anyone other than you, without your consent. If you would like us to be able to talk to your parent/carer or other trusted person on your behalf, you will need to complete this consent form. In an emergency, we may reach out to your emergency contact, including if there is a serious concern about your wellbeing.

Managing anxiety and overwhelm

• Familiarise yourself with what to expect during Starting Block (induction activities at the start of year).
• Prepare for anxiety provoking situations and have an exit strategy if you think the situation could be overwhelming.
• Identify safe spaces. Drop in sanctuary spaces are available on all campuses for a quiet, safe space when needed.
• Consider wearing a sunflower lanyard or similar, to let others know that you have a hidden disability.
• Wear noise cancelling headphones or use distraction techniques and fidget toys.
• Use breathing or relaxation techniques, like box breathing.
• Talk to friends and family about how you’re feeling.
• Register with the Wellbeing Service for free, individual support to help you adjust to university life and develop practical strategies to support your mental health.

Meeting new people and making connections

• Join groups and societies through the Student’s Union at UWE.
• You may wish join the UWE Autism Support Group which is facilitated by specialist mentors, where you can meet other students and be yourself. See upcoming events or email as.group@uwe.ac.uk for more information about this group.
• Introduce yourself to others and initiate conversations.
• Start with short activities like eating lunch together.
• Exchange information like sharing your social media or phone number.
• Invite others along to events outside of university, like to the cinema or a music gig.
• Try new experiences and discover things to do in Bristol.
• Access activities for people who identify as autistic from outside organizations such as Diverse UK.