Support and Welfare for International Students in UK Higher Education

International students are a vital part of the UK’s higher education community, contributing to academic, cultural, and economic life. Yet, they often face unique challenges around welfare, support, and inclusion. This policy panel will examine:

• Current support structures for international students.
• Gaps and barriers in welfare provision.
• Disability and accessibility in higher education.
• Best practice and policy recommendations for universities and government.

The discussion will be chaired by The Rt Hon Lord Philip Norton of Louth, Professor of Government at the University of Hull and one of the UK’s foremost experts on Parliament and higher education policy. He will be joined by the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, a leader in student experience and institutional growth.

Speakers:

• Dr. Anne Rowan: Postdoctoral researcher and expert in supporting disabled international students, whose recent research highlights the need for holistic and structural approaches to inclusion in UK higher education.
• Dr. Chris Whitaker: Head of Disability at Sport England, with extensive experience in promoting inclusivity, accessibility, and athlete welfare at both policy and practitioner levels.
• Alyson Hwang: Research and Strategy Manager at Policy Connect, a cross-party think tank specialising in education, skills, and assistive technology policy.
• More speakers will be confirmed.

Join university leaders, student support staff, policymakers, international student representatives, disability advocates, and others interested in the future of international student welfare in the UK.

For more information, please contact alyson.hwang@policyconnect.org.uk.