Wstecz ASD Student assistant

According to research carried out by the Ombudsman, among others, students with mental disabilities are virtually invisible at universities and their special needs are rarely taken into account in efforts to ensure equal access to learning. This is because neurodiverse students often avoid notice in an effort to avoid negative reactions from their surroundings and stigmatisation. They also rarely use the services of disability offices, trying to cope on their own in their departments or with the help of their relatives. As a result, many of these students are left without support and often drop out of continuing their studies.

A description of the innovation before scaling up can be found here.

The project offers counselling and support services to male and female students with ASD. The extent and frequency of support is determined on an individual basis and can cover various areas related to studying, e.g. running errands at the dean's office, navigating the city, dealing with instructors, planning study and leisure time. The use of support does not require a disability certificate and a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Any student who suspects they have ASD can participate in the project and receive support. The project also works on on spreading awareness of autism spectrum disorders.

• Students and qualifying students who have received (or are currently receiving) specialist, psychological support in the last 5 years or are under the care of an organisation for people with ASD.

• Universities and colleges.

• Classroom venue.

Tel: 61 859 59 00;

E-mail: dgasa@dga.pl;

Website: www.dga.pl;

Correspondence address: 35 Towarowa St., 61-896 Poznań.