Student support for neurodivergence at YSJ

Hello!
I can tell you a bit about the services we offer at YSJ for neurodivergent students. I'm currently waiting for a diagnosis of autism so I can tell you a bit about what is offered to me for that too.
Firstly is the practical support, so things such as Learning Adjustment Plans which allow you to tailor your education to your needs. There are options for exam adjustments such as having breaks where you can leave the room with a member of staff to cool down, or having extra time. Having extra time in exams have helped me as I get easily distracted from noises in the exam room. Alongside this you can do your exams in a smaller room rather than the exam hall to help minimise sensory distractions. These are all things that, should you request a learning adjustment plan, you can discuss with one of our Disability and Inclusion team to personalise to your needs. These do require some form of evidence, and for me a letter from my GP confirming I was on the waiting list for a diagnosis was enough to qualify me. You can see our webpage on Learner Adjustment Plans using this link. I set mine up before I started my first year so it was ready to go immediately as the term started. You can do this by following the instructions on our webpage on how to set up your LAP. My LAP also allows me to record some lectures as sometimes I find it hard to focus, so I can go back and listen to them later. There are tons of customisable options to meet everyone's needs.
Second is our mental health services. We have drop-in services for wellbeing support, and we offer some university-provided counselling sessions. You can also book sessions with the disability team whenever you need to discuss things that might be affecting you, or adjustments that you think need to be made to your LAP.
Thirdly we have a therapy dog called Blue, who is simply the sweetest thing ever! You can book a free 15 minute session with Blue or a 30 minute session where Blue can tag along to your appointment with the Disability practitioner. Would reccommend! He's very chill, and having him there is very helpful for regulating emotions when talking about difficult things.
Fourth is our societies and support groups. We have a free social support group for people identifying as neurodivergent called S.W.A.N. that connects neurodivergent students across campus. I'm personally not a member so I can't give too much insight here, but the Student's Union website says they do a range of neurodivergent-friendly activities such as game nights, crafts, and PowerPoint nights on special interests. It seems like a fantastic way to meet other neurodivergent friends who might have the same struggles as you with university, and maybe some older students who have figured it out can offer some advice. Personally I've met a lot of neurodivergent friends through my work and on my course - feels like we have a big presence here!
All in all I'm so glad I came to YSJ because they really do offer fantastic support. I also have the kindest and most understanding tutors and lecturers who are happy to accept casual requests for me that make my life easier. I have previously been to competitive institutions who have not offered as much support as going to YSJ and I would seriously recommend coming here to anyone who is worried their neurodivergence might affect their education.
This is all I can think of at the moment, but if I remember anything else I'll come back and add it on. If you have any other questions I'd be happy to answer them
Alex
Student Ambassador