The Students’ Union Council has called on the university to make all study spaces accessible for disabled students.
In their November council meeting, they voted for a motion which made clear their dissatisfaction with the current accessibility of campus’ study spaces:
“Many disabled students, particularly autistic students, may find the sensory environment of existing study spaces difficult.”
The Council identified a “lack of accessible study space” at the University, which, they believe, could “prevent some disabled students from studying on campus and impact their academic performance and well-being”.
Where possible they have called for buildings to be modified so that all study areas can include enclosed sensory rooms. Where it isn’t they ask for libraries to make ear defenders and screen glare protectors available at request for disabled students.
In response, the University stressed their “on-going commitment to ensure our campus is inclusive and accessible for all”.
“The University Library service currently offers a range of private and group assisted study spaces across campus bookable to those students, but we are always open to hearing feedback so we can work to ensure that our services are meeting student needs and expectations.
“We encourage our students with specific needs to get in touch with us through our Disability and Dyslexia Support Service, or the ‘AccessAble – UOS’ app.”
The policy is due for review by the SU Council in November 2026.
