Posted 1 week ago
Wed 02 Apr, 2025 12:04 AM
Hello! I’m Dani, a final-year maths student. I am diagnosed with autism and ADHD, and throughout my time here, I have learned a lot about navigating university life in Bath as a disabled student and would like to share what I have learned.
Finding a community
Being part of a supportive community has been one of the most valuable aspects of my university experience. Here are some groups I’ve attended that I’d recommend trying out, especially if you're looking for ways to meet people in a less overwhelming environment:
- Disability Action Group (DAG) – A student-led group for disabled students who organise a variety of socials.
- Autism Social Group – A group run by the Disability Service for autistic students, where we do relaxing activities such as arts and crafts, board games, and more.
- Wellbeing Groups – There are many of these run by the Wellbeing Service, and the ones I’ve personally attended include Art for Wellbeing, Gardening, and the Social Networking Group (for students experiencing loneliness).
Top tip: If you're nervous about attending for the first time, ask to meet someone beforehand so you can go in together. From personal experience, I know that the DAG Committee and the staff running these groups would be more than happy to help!
Some art I made at the Art for Wellbeing group
Quieter study spaces in Bath
I work best in spaces that meet my sensory needs. Personally, I’m most productive in coffee shops, but I often find it overwhelming not knowing whether there will be space inside or if they’ll be laptop-friendly. Here are some quieter coffee shops I’ve found where they’re happy for you to study:
- Coffee #1 - Bath Riverside.
- Mokoko - Lower Bristol Road.
- Velo Lounge - Moorland Road.
Top tip: Choose coffee shops on the outskirts of the city centre rather than right in the middle – they tend to be quieter and often have more students studying as well.
Who to ask for advice and support
If you're unsure where to begin with an issue you’re having, here are some people I’d recommend reaching out to, and if they can’t resolve the issue themselves, I know they’ll happily signpost you to who can:
- DAG WhatsApp Group Chat - if you would prefer to hear from students.
- Disability Service - if you would prefer to talk to staff.
Top tip: Ask what support there is available, as there is always more than you realise! Picking out what might help you is far easier than having to know exactly what to ask for.
DAG social
Accessible part-time jobs
If you're looking for a part-time job, I highly recommend on-campus jobs. They are very flexible, as most are zero-hour contracts, allowing you to pick shifts around your studies. Specifically, I am an Outreach Ambassador, and I cannot recommend it enough for how accessible the role is! There’s such a variety of things you can get involved in, including both in-person and online work, and the team is incredibly understanding and open to adjustments.
Me working as an ambassador
I hope sharing what I’ve learned helps you navigate your own university journey. I can truly say that I’ve found a community and felt supported here at Bath, and I hope you do too.
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