This almost puts me off study!

tommy2k8

I am currently studying a BSc (Hons) in Computing and IT with the Open University. Over the past 4 years (since I started the degree), I have been provided with Financial Support and Disability Students Allowance. My disability restricts me somewhat, therefore, I learn better my doing one course at a time.
I attended a meeting with my Regional Advisor on 24 July 2012, to discuss my future plans for study as the course I did last wasn't sutiable for me and what I do for my job (I am self-employed but don't earn much at the moment.) It clearly states the courses I will undertake and the dates they start and when I will finish my degree.
However, I have been declined both Disability Support Allowance (which includes a Study Skills tutor, which I really need) and Financial Support. Despite the reason behind I have not built up enough credits, my disability is permanent, and I feel this is an unjust decision by one of the biggest educational establishments in the country, if not the world.
I feel that, in some ways, this is discrimination.
I understand there are people who take advantage of the system, but, in this case, a lack of communication is to blame.
I know the forum members can't do anything but I thought Id highlight this unfair case.

midnight_express

What is your disability ?

pickpocketlocket

For what reason have you been refused DSA?

Can I suggest that you remove the name of your regional advisor? It is unfair to name him without his permission.

fishybusiness

Hi, you have described that you have a plan to complete your degree, so you know where you are going.

I have been declined both Disability Support Allowance (which includes a Study Skills tutor, which I really need) and Financial Support

I wonder if you can elaborate a little on why you have been declined support.

Also, the course you described as not being suitable for you, did you complete it?

tommy2k8

midnight_express wrote: »

What is your disability ?

Cerebral palsy

tommy2k8

pickpocketlocket wrote: »

For what reason have you been refused DSA?

Can I suggest that you remove the name of your regional advisor? It is unfair to name him without his permission.

How do I do that now I have named him?

tommy2k8

fishybusiness wrote: »

Hi, you have described that you have a plan to complete your degree, so you know where you are going.



I wonder if you can elaborate a little on why you have been declined support.

I have been declined support because I have not got enough credits.

Also, the course you described as not being suitable for you, did you complete it?

I completed a quarter of it, but then gave up because I was going round and round in circles!

pickpocketlocket

tommy2k8 wrote: »

How do I do that now I have named him?

Click the Edit button.

Can you elaborate on why your funding has been refused, and why you gave up your last course? Did you formally withdraw?

tommy2k8

I am expected to get a certain amount of credits every year and I haven't got enough - I can't really do more than 1 course at a time because of the way I learn.
My OU advisor withdrew me, with my permission.

shedboy94

tommy2k8 wrote: »

I am expected to get a certain amount of credits every year and I haven't got enough - I can't really do more than 1 course at a time because of the way I learn.
My OU advisor withdrew me, with my permission.

So essentially you are given money to complete a course, but you haven't done so and they are refusing to give you more money to do the course again/do a different course?........or have I got it wrong?

tommy2k8

Yes, to do a different course to make up my degree. However, I'm entitled 6 years of financial suppor t and I have only had 4.