Meet the Student Disability Service team
Ali Bottrill
Head of the Student Disability Service
I have been the Head of the Student Disability Service here at UoB since June 2019. I have worked in Disability Support for almost 20 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.
Jon Haining
Disability Adviser
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 Adviser 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.
Vikki Anderson
Disability Adviser (Learning Support)
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.
Julie Kendall
Disability Adviser
My name is Julie Kendall. I am a student Disability Adviser, and have worked for the university since 2003. I work with a wide range of students based on their individual needs with a specialism in supporting students with sensory, physical, and chronic health conditions.
Sophie O'Connor
Disability Adviser
I have worked as a Disability Adviser now for almost 10 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.
Suzanne Harbourne
Disability Adviser
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.
Amrit Sandhu
Disability Adviser
I have been working for the Disability Service since 2018 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.
Lynne Whitlock
Disability Adviser
I am a Disability Adviser specialising in Mental Health. I have worked in mental health for 25 years in the NHS and several Birmingham universities. I work from a student-centred approach by focusing on all aspects of a student's life to enhance their studies and university experience.