Peer Mentoring:  Transition Support Project for Disabled Learners

Aimhigher Greater Merseyside has launched a new mentoring project which targets disabled learners with aspirations of studying at Higher Education level.

In May 2009, the Peer Mentoring Project for Disabled Learners was set up with the hope of supporting disabled learners in their transition to University. The process allows disabled learners to become aware of the certain barriers that they may face to gain such an education and how they can be overcome.

Mentors are disabled learners themselves who have already made the transition to university and support up to six disabled learners a year, in their school or college, meeting with them twice monthly as well as communicating regularly with the mentee through an electronic mentoring system.

A peer mentor will be reliable, responsible and possess good communication skills. Mentors will share their experiences, offering valuable guidance and advice in what to expect and how best to approach Higher Education. In particular, their role emphasises the importance of enabling mentees to achieve their long and short term goals.

Mentors will be able to liaise with other support staff at schools and colleges and help mentees prepare for the transition to University. Some of the mentoring sessions have looked as the decision to disclose disability at application stage; applications for Disabled Students' Allowance (which funds the cost of specialist course equipment and course support) and Student Loan Applications.

Mentors will support and encourage mentees to forge vital contacts with the Disability Support Services of their chosen University to assist them in this transition.

For mentees, the project is an excellent opportunity to find out about what university life involves both academically and socially. They will be able to inquire, discuss and raise any issues or concerns they have confidentially and within a secure environment. Through this, it is hoped that the mentee will possess a growth in confidence and an increased aptitude for further study.