Disabled students are 'penalised'

One in five universities surveyed in London do not have rooms for hired carers for disabled students, an undercover investigation has revealed.

According to the research, carried out by the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, disabled students in London are being penalised when choosing a university.

It also found 40% of university inter-campus transport is inaccessible to disabled students.

The research was undertaken as part of a guidebook for disabled students.

The study was carried out by the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign's Trailblazers - a network of 16-30-year-olds who campaign for the rights of young disabled people.

It is vital to ensure all students have access to the same opportunities Phillip Butcher, Muscular Dystrophy Campaign

The report, University Challenge, also revealed that one in 10 London universities do not have good links with local care agencies and support services.

In addition, 30% of London university bars, cafes and leisure facilities are not accessible to all students with a mobility impairment, the research found.

Other findings were that only half of all university teaching rooms, study rooms and libraries are fully accessible to students with a disability.

Facilities at the following London universities were looked at: Brunel, City, Royal Holloway, King's College London, Westminster, Roehampton, School of Oriental and African Studies, Goldsmiths College, Queen Mary London, and University College London.

'Biggest decisions'

Laura Merry, a 20-year-old trailblazer ambassador, who studies at Roehampton University, said: "Universities need to understand how to make it easier for disabled students to have the same great experience as any other student - attending university is one of the biggest decisions anyone makes."

Phillip Butcher, of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, said: "Every student has the right to make their choices of university, based on academic and social concerns rather than because of the practical facilities available.

"It is vital to ensure all students have access to the same opportunities."

The campaigners are now calling for a meeting to call on the Government and local authorities to work with them to review their recommendations.

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