Sir, – The concerning trend of increasing college dropout rates, particularly among students grappling with mental health issues, financial pressures, and other challenges, is garnering significant attention. The recent Irish Times article “College dropout rates climb amid concern over student mental health” (News, February 29th) underscores the urgency of finding effective solutions to address the contributory factors. These Higher Education Authority (HEA) statistics reveal a stark reality.
People with disabilities accessing education are experiencing this reality in a disproportionate way. Given their already marginalised position in society, the absence of adequate support systems exacerbates their struggle to overcome systemic barriers to full participation.
People with disabilities are living with the double burden of the cost of living and the cost of disability crises while also facing obstacles to accessible transport, suitable housing, and employment. Amid this backdrop of mental health challenges, financial strains, and logistical hurdles faced by students, people with disabilities and mental ill-health are particularly vulnerable to being left behind.
There is an urgent need for comprehensive educational supports and pathways that cater to the diverse needs of people with disabilities, preparing them for success in higher and further education and training while mitigating the risk of dropout.
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At Rehab Group, we witness firsthand these challenges’ disproportionate impact on the students and service users we support. The pandemic exacerbated existing socio-emotional burdens, with heightened anxiety and disruptions to routines becoming more prevalent among students seeking education and training opportunities. As dropout rates continue to rise, it’s crucial to acknowledge that traditional educational pathways may not be suitable for every individual, especially those with disabilities. This reality necessitates the creation of inclusive pathways that cater to the unique needs of people with disabilities, providing them with the necessary support to thrive in higher education and beyond.
The transition from secondary to higher education, or further education, is a pivotal aspect that requires immediate attention. The absence of a formal referral system for students exiting secondary school leaves people with disabilities at a disadvantage, hindering their access to appropriate further education services. Establishing robust referral mechanisms tailored to those who need extra support is essential to ensure their seamless transition into higher education or further education and training.
The current landscape of post-secondary provision for people with disabilities or extra support needs is fragmented and insufficient to meet their diverse needs. Mainstream further education and training providers often lack the resources and infrastructure required to support people with disabilities. Investing in specialist training providers and enhancing education and disability support services is imperative to bridge this gap and ensure equitable access to quality education for all.
Specialist training providers like Rehab Group’s National Learning Network (NLN) offer valuable alternatives to traditional higher education pathways for those needing more support to get an education or access employment. NLN’s holistic approach focuses on developing essential life skills, providing mental health support, enhancing employability, and empowering people to overcome barriers and reach their full potential.
As we navigate the complexities of an evolving educational landscape, it’s essential to prioritise the needs of people with disabilities and those more marginalised by disadvantage to ensure their inclusion in higher education and further education and training.
Investing in innovative solutions and supporting inclusive educational pathways can mitigate the dropout risk and foster a more equitable and accessible education system for all. – Yours, etc,
BARRY McGINN,
CEO,
Rehab Group,
Dublin 12.