Support for students with ADHD/ADD

There are a number of opportunities for you to meet with us and start setting up support before you start your course. 

We provide a wide range of support for our students with a ADHD/ADD. This can allow for extra time in assessments or exams, extended library loans, and other reasonable adjustments. The support plan will be created for your individual needs and requirements. 

To put support in place, please provide your ADHD/ADD diagnostic assessment. If you're on the waiting list for an ADHD/ADD assessment, please send us a letter from your GP or hospital, confirming your referral.

Please email it to studentservices@derby.ac.uk with your details (full name, student number if known, date of birth, general availability (for an appointment) and course you're hoping to study).   

We'll contact you to arrange an appointment with our Disability team to discuss your support requirements. 

If you think you have ADHD/ADD, we would advise getting in touch with your GP, and request they make a referral for an NHS Funded assessment with a specialist.

We understand waiting lists for ADHD/ADD assessments can be long. If you've been referred, please email disabilityteam@derby.ac.uk with evidence of you referral (your referral letter or a doctors letter stating they've referred you). 

A member of the team will get back to you and discuss your next steps.

Further information, including guidance about assessment can be found on the NHS website.  

• Tips and Advice for studying with ADHD/ADD
• ADHD UK has an excellent guide to how the assessment process works, as well as an up to date list of assessment providers with waiting times included
• External Resources and Support for those with ADHD/ADD

As well as reasonable adjustments, you might also be eligible for support through the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA). DSA may fund additional support students benefit from; which could include, specialist software/equipment and a specialist study skills tutor.

Our experience shows students really benefit from DSA support. It can take up to three months to get your DSA, so apply for it as soon as you have applied for a course.

Learn more about DSA and start your application.