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<p>The Government is committed to ensuring that everyone with the potential has the
opportunity to benefit from higher education, irrespective of their background or
mode of learning. In the last academic year we saw record entry rates to higher education,
including among those from disadvantaged backgrounds</p><p> </p><p>Higher Education
Institutions have responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010 to support their students,
including those with disabilities. They have a clear legal duty to make reasonable
adjustments for disabled people to ensure they are not placed at a substantial disadvantage
compared to non-disabled students.</p><p> </p><p>To support Higher Education (HE)
providers to prepare for the changes to Disabled Students’ Allowances that come into
effect from academic year 2016/17, the Department has supported the establishment
of a sector-led group ofstakeholders. The group’s focus is to communicate with senior
leaders of HE providers, to help provide information about institutions’ responsibilities
under the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments for disabled students,
and to encourage HE providers to develop inclusive learning environments.</p><p>In
addition, universities expect to spend more than £745 million through access agreements
agreed with the Director of Fair Access on measures to improve access and success
for students from disadvantaged groups, including disabled students - up significantly
from £404 million in 2009.</p><p> </p><p> </p>
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