Working With Associates

DSA Mentoring & Consultancy works with a small number of carefully selected associates to support students through Non-Medical Help (NMH) provision. Our approach is safeguarding-led, role-bounded, and neuro-affirming.

Our approach

Associate work is non-therapeutic, role-specific, and aligned with DSA guidance. We prioritise clarity of scope, professional boundaries, and consistent quality assurance.

  • Safeguarding-led practice with clear escalation routes
  • Defined professional scope and non-therapeutic boundaries
  • Neuro-affirming, respectful, inclusive support
  • Realistic, sustainable workloads

Associate roles

Associates may work with the practice in the following roles only:

  • Specialist Study Skills (SpLD)
  • Specialist Mental Health Mentoring

Associates must work within their own qualifications and approved role. Delivery outside agreed role scope is not permitted.

Governance & safeguarding

All associates are required to meet onboarding and compliance expectations before delivering support. The Provider retains overall responsibility for governance and safeguarding oversight.

  • Verified qualifications appropriate to role
  • Valid DBS (Enhanced where applicable)
  • Professional indemnity and public liability insurance
  • Commitment to safeguarding and data protection standards

Associates are engaged on a freelance, non-exclusive basis and are subject to clear governance arrangements.

Software & professional tools

Associates are responsible for maintaining access to any professional software required for their role, either through their own licences or software issued directly to students via DSA suppliers.

Tools used by the Lead Practitioner for governance and quality oversight are not shared unless explicitly agreed in writing and permitted by licensing terms.