SU💡GGESTIONS

Include accessible parking for all students who need it at the Foresterhill campus regardless of year of study without harassment or discrimination. Investigate the reports of inappropriate staff conduct and take appropriate action where necessary. Review and improve Foresterhill campus accessibility, with particular attention to parking arrangements and equitable access for disabled students. Provide training for staff on disability awareness, accessibility, and inclusive communication. Consult directly with disabled students to co-develop fair, compassionate, and accessible parking policies.

The Disabled Students Forum has received multiple reports from students based at the Foresterhill campus regarding rude and inappropriate emails from staff concerning the use of car parking facilities. Many of these students rely on the use of their cars as an essential accessibility support, enabling them to attend classes, manage mobility limitations, and regulate themselves during periods of overwhelm or sensory distress. It is unacceptable for students to be harassed, shamed, or penalised for taking reasonable steps to meet their own accessibility needs. The Foresterhill campus remains largely inaccessible for many disabled students, and car use is often not a matter of convenience but of necessity. We are also concerned by reports of students being told to “simply get a Blue Badge”, a statement that shows a lack of understanding of the diverse access needs within the disabled student community. Not all disabilities are visible, and not all disabled students qualify for a Blue Badge, despite having legitimate needs for accessible transport and parking.