Administrator - Disability Support Team

The Open University; England; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in the UK is seeking a Disability Support Assistant to provide vital support to disabled students. Responsibilities include managing inquiries, assisting with Disability Support Forms, and collaborating with various departments. The ideal candidate will have experience in customer service, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to equality and diversity. This position offers a supportive and collaborative working environment.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) and the Equality Act 2010.
• Experience in a customer service environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Act as the first point of contact for enquiries regarding Disability Support services.
• Engage students about their support needs and help with DSA applications.
• Support students in completing Disability Support Forms.
• Liaise with other departments for seamless support.
• Maintain accurate student records in accordance with GDPR.

Skills

Customer service experience

Excellent communication skills

Organisational skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Team collaboration

Commitment to equality and diversity

Education

NVQ Level 3 in Customer Service or equivalent

Job description

We are looking for a dedicated and empathetic Disability Support Assistant to join the Disability Support Team within Student Additional Support. In this vital role, you will provide administrative advice and guidance to disabled students and prospective students, helping them access the support they need to succeed in their studies and achieve their goals at the Open University.

Responsibilities

• Be the first point of contact for enquiries about Disability Support services via phone, email, webchat and post.
• Proactively engage students in conversations about their support needs, encouraging early disclosure and helping them apply for the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA).
• Support students in completing Disability Support Forms to ensure appropriate adjustments are in place before their studies begin.
• Liaise with specialist colleagues and departments to deliver seamless support.
• Maintain accurate student records, handling sensitive data in line with GDPR and University policies.
• Meet deadlines and maintain a high standard of accuracy and professionalism in all administrative tasks.
• Use initiative and sound judgement to problem-solve within established procedures.
• Deliver work in line with internal policies and quality standards.

You will be part of a friendly and professional team that values excellent customer service and works collaboratively to make a real difference in students' lives.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) and the Equality Act 2010 is beneficial - You will need to be familiar with the Equality Act 2010 before you start. If you do not already have this knowledge, please take the time to research the Act ahead of joining if successful. Training will be provided on DSA.
• Experience in a customer service environment involving inbound and outbound calling.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain policies clearly.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and confident in learning new systems.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team and adapt to changing demands.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of work.

Desirable

• NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) in Customer Service or Information, Advice and Guidance, or a willingness to work towards it.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a values-driven organisation with a powerful mission: widening access to education and transforming lives. The Open University offers a supportive, inclusive, and flexible working environment, committed to diversity and equity.