Definition of a disability

Permanent Disabilities

A permanent disability that results in a functional limitation caused by a physical or mental impairment that restricts the ability of a person to perform the daily activities necessary to participate in studies at a post-secondary level or in the labour force and is expected to remain with the person for the person's expected natural life.

The extent to which disability affects a person’s life depends very much upon the environments in which a person lives – social, cultural, psychological and physical.

Temporary Disabilities

Disability Services recognizes that some students may encounter a period when surgery, injury or short-term medical issues may result in a temporary disabling condition. This is a “short term disability” that must be verified by providing appropriate documentation from a physician or licensed professional. Examples of temporary disabilities may include broken limbs, hand injuries or recovery from surgery or medical treatments.  In these circumstances, individuals are entitled to accommodations similar to students with permanent disabilities.

Documentation Required

In order for a student to receive accommodation Disability Services requires a copy of the Verification of Temporary Disability Form to be completed by a physician. The temporary disability, services required and duration of services must be addressed on the form; it may be helpful to specify side effects of any medication. Additional documentation may be requested if the duration of services is longer than initially anticipated.

Possible Accommodations

Accommodations are related to the temporary disability. These may include:

• Accommodated exams (extra time, scribe or  computer)
• Note-taker
• Recorder to record lectures (subject to availability)
• Scooter for access to classes while on campus

Disability Services does not provide personal care attendants or tutors for temporary disabilities.

Additional Information

Tutor Benefits with Green Shield Student Plan

Private tutorial service of a qualified teacher: up to $25 per hour, up to $1,000 per disability. You must be confined to home or hospital for a minimum of 15 consecutive days to qualify. See page 4 of plan.

Parking

If you require handicap parking, a S.P.A.R.K. parking permit must be purchased from Nanaimo Regional Disability Resource Center, #2 - 4166 Departure Bay Road, Nanaimo. You may purchase a permit for 3, 6, or 12 months for $20. There is a form that must be completed by your doctor: http://www.nrdrc.org/parking.html . On campus, the valid handicap permit must be displayed on the windshield rear-view mirror. You should park in designated handicap spots, however if one is not available, you can park FREE in general, staff, or metered lots provided your permit is displayed on your mirror.

Direct your parking concerns to the Traffic Office, Building 315, Room 110, and is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Fridays. Phone 250-740-6512 or Email parking@viu.ca

Barrier Free Routes

Campus Maps detailing buildings, ramp routes, handicap parking, and emergency phones are available to download here or pick one up at the Disability Services Office, Building 200, 2nd Floor.