When I worked as a DSA assessor, I knew that my job was about so much more than completing a report. Every recommendation I made had the potential to shape a student’s experience at university – not just on paper, but in their day-to-day reality.

For students facing barriers in higher education, Non-Medical Help (NMH) isn’t just useful. It’s often the difference between surviving and thriving. And when it’s delivered well, it can change lives.

In this article, I want to share what I’ve seen NMH support do for students and why choosing the right provider makes all the difference, not just for your students, but for your own peace of mind too.

Why NMH Support Matters

You know how powerful a good assessment can be. But even the best recommendations can fall flat if they’re not matched with the right support on the ground.

Within the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) framework, NMH support acts as the bridge between our reports and a student’s actual academic success. Without that connection – without the mentoring, the study strategies, the person to talk to – assistive technology and equipment can go underused or misunderstood.

Here’s what I saw time and again:

• Study Skills support gives students the tools to manage workload, understand academic conventions, and build confidence in their own abilities.
• Specialist Mentoring helps them regulate emotions, stay motivated, and feel seen – especially when dealing with anxiety, executive dysfunction, or burnout.

When NMH is delivered right, students don’t just keep going – they grow.

Understanding Student Needs

As you’ll know, the students we assess are dealing with increasingly complex, overlapping challenges. During my time as an assessor, the most common conditions I encountered were Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and Dyslexia. Post-pandemic, I saw more late diagnoses too – students who had no idea they were neurodivergent until they hit a wall in higher education.

I often worked with students who’d never had access to tailored 1:1 support before. They were bright and motivated, but overwhelmed. They struggled with:

• Concentration and information processing
• Time and workload management
• Academic writing
• Stress
• Confidence in their abilities

Our job, as assessors, is to recommend support that addresses both emotional and academic barriers. Sometimes that’s mentoring. Sometimes it’s study skills. Sometimes it’s both. But it should always start with what the student feels is right for them.

The Power of Personalised Support

One student I assessed presented with Autism, Dyslexia, and a physical disability, compounded by severe anxiety. They were overwhelmed, missing lectures, and contemplating leaving their degree altogether. The turning point? Having someone to talk to, and someone to help break assignments into manageable steps.

It’s often these small, consistent interactions that rebuild a student’s confidence and keep them engaged.

Why Delivery Options Matter

One of the biggest issues I had with some providers was their rigid approach. Students were often pushed into remote support whether it suited them or not.

I’ve seen how face-to-face support can be crucial for students who need that in-person connection to stay focused or feel safe. I’ve also seen how remote sessions can be a lifeline for those dealing with social anxiety or poor mental health.

The point is: students should get to choose. Not be told what’s easier for the provider.

What Works for Neurodivergent Students

If you’re supporting neurodivergent students, you already know that structure, clarity, and consistency are essential. Some of the most effective strategies I’ve seen include:

• Visual aids and calendars
• Regular routines
• Task breakdown and planning support
• A consistent point of contact they trust

And for many autistic students, that relational side of mentoring is critical. Just having someone they trust – who isn’t judging them, or assessing them – can make all the difference in how they manage stress, stay engaged, and grow in confidence.

How YorLinc Delivers Consistent, High-Quality NMH Support

Yorlinc was founded to offer something many larger providers lack: personalised, outcomes-focused support grounded in professional integrity.

Here’s what sets Yorlinc apart:

• We respond to assessor queries in under 30 minutes, because we know how crucial that speed is.
• We offer nationwide face-to-face support, with over 350 qualified professionals.
• We never allocate underqualified staff or match students with the wrong support just to tick a box.
• We don’t pressure students into remote support – the student’s choice comes first.
• And we don’t just onboard and disappear; we track outcomes and stay accountable.

Yorlinc doesn’t just meet expectations. We go further, ensuring every student receives the right support at the right time.

NMH as a Lifeline, Not a Luxury

The truth is, we’re all working under pressure. But that doesn’t mean we should settle for any provision. Every student you assess deserves a provider who’ll care as much as you do about the outcome.

So if you’re looking for a provider who understands what it’s like to sit in your seat, and who’s committed to giving your students the support they need to succeed – contact the YorLinc team.

Together, we can make sure that every student gets the meaningful support they need and deserve.