Nicola Smith
Hi, I am Nikki a 1st year disabled History/Ancient History mature student. (she/her)
Though I have only been at the university for a short time, I have come across and witnessed many issues students have encountered regarding accessibility around campus. In my short time I have got the ball rolling to improve accessibility in brand-new buildings like the JMS where automatic doors are seriously lacking. This is unacceptable for students in wheelchairs, mobility scooters and other mobility requirements.
My goal is not only to help those with physical disabilities but to also help the many students with hidden disabilities who simply are not getting their needs met.
- All doors within campus to be either automatic by sensor or push button so every student has the possibility to move around campus independently and not be reliant on other.
- To increase accessible accommodation so students can experience living in halls the same as everyone else.
- Improve how lecture halls/seminar rooms are labelled as accessible. A lift does not make the location accessible! Some of the lifts are far too small and impractical.
- To increase the amount of disabled/priority study areas and seating.
- Liaise with other welfare officers to improve student experiences.