Meet the Student Disability Service team

I have been the Head of the Student Disability Service here at UoB since June 2019. I have worked in Disability Support for the past 13 years, working as a Head of Service at Keele University as well as a number of years in an advisory capacity at Staffordshire University. In 2009 I completed a Master’s degree in Disability Studies, with my dissertation focusing on the transition to Higher Education for students on the Autistic Spectrum.

I take a student centred approach within my role, with the aim of enabling all students to have a positive university experience.

In my spare time I enjoy days out with my little boy, going to the cinema and meals out with friends.

Having graduated from UoB in 2009 I worked for a leading disability charity for 5 years prior to re-joining the University in the role of Disability Advisor in 2014. I advise the University on inclusive practice and individual reasonable adjustments with a focus on the needs of students with sensory/physical impairments and long term health conditions.

I have been a member of the Student Disability Team for over 10 years, specialising in the field of specific learning difficulties including dyslexia, dyspraxia and dyscalculia.

My name is Julie Kendall. I am a student Disability Advisor, and have worked for the university since 2002.

I started my role as a Disability Advisor in October 2019, however I first came to the University of Birmingham in 2006, as a Specialist Autism Mentor, returning to mentoring in 2012 and staying in the role for 7 years. I started working in roles supporting people with disabilities and long-term health conditions in 2002, including roles in education, employment and community settings.

I enjoy working with students, supporting them to get the most from their time at university.

In my spare time I like spending time with my family, making or fixing things and I’m a member of my local canoe club.

I have worked as a Disability Advisor now for over 5 years, having previously worked at Keele University. I have also worked in some capacity with students and young adults with a variety of disabilities since I graduated in 2010.

I specifically work with students registered with a mental health condition or an autistic spectrum condition. I have just completed an MA in Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities. My research has led me to work closely with the police and focuses on Appropriate Adult support for those identified at custody as having a learning disability. I love fancy dress, my favourite being a self-made Mr. Blobby outfit... if you remember who he is!!

I joined the Student Disability Service in February 2018 and specialise in supporting students with specific learning difficulties. Prior to this, I was a teacher within the Further Education sector for 20 years.

I gained my Postgraduate Diploma in Inclusion and Special Educational Needs from the University of Birmingham in 2019.

When I’m not working, I like to travel, spend time with my family and visit the theatre.

I have been working for the Disability Service for the past 3 years after a decade working as a front line Mental Health Worker. I am highly passionate about the work I do and I love empowering students. In my spare time I love to travel and experience new cultures.