Useful Contacts
In the UK, there is a wide range of training providers and information available for those who wish to learn about the use of assistive technology.
Here is a list of some of them:
The British Dyslexia Association (BDA)
The BDA offers a range of training courses aimed at teachers, parents and other professionals. They offer both face-to-face and online training, and cover a wide range of topics related to assistive technology.
CALL Scotland is a service provided by the University of Edinburgh, and is focused on the use of assistive technology to support learners with disabilities. They offer a range of courses, including online courses, webinars, and face-to-face training.
This is a leading UK organisation that provides support and advice on all aspects of Assistive Technology. Their website contains a wealth of information on various types of assistive technology, including software, hardware, and apps.
This organisation provides education and training to support the effective use of technology in special education needs (SEN) and disability settings. Their website includes information on assistive technology solutions and best practices for using technology to support learning.
The SEND Network, a Power of AT Impact Partner, is an online community for professionals, practitioners and advocates throughout the special education needs and disabilities sector. The SEND Network showcases best practice, current trends and thought leadership and provides a trusted space for peers to network, share ideas and develop their skills.
nasen is the National Association for Special Educational Needs – a charitable membership organisation that exists to support and champion those working with, and for, children and young people with SEND and learning differences.
This UK-based organisation provides technology services and support to higher education institutions across the country. Their website includes information on accessible technologies and how to make digital content more inclusive.
Patoss Dyslexia Charity is the Professional Association of Teachers of Students with Specific Learning Difficulties, for all those concerned with the teaching and support of pupils with SpLD, for example: dyslexic, dyspraxic, dyscalculic, ADHD.
This is the charity for people with visual impairments. They have a dedicated section on their website that provides information on the latest assistive technology tools and products that can help people with visual impairments live more independently.
TAVIP, the Technology Association of Visually Impaired People, is a member-led organisation helping visually impaired people to use tech at home, at work, and in education. TAVIP run masterclasses, webinars and host an annual conference call Tech-a-Break which takes place in October and they have established two dediated training programmes: Technology for Work and Technology for Learning.
The Royal National Institute for the Deaf offer information and support for people who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus, and those who support someone.
This is a well-known charity that supports people with disabilities. Their website contains a range of helpful resources and tools on assistive technology, including a comprehensive guide to the different types of assistive technology available in the UK.
This is a leading UK charity that offers a range of resources for people with autism, including information about Assistive Technology that can promote independence and wellbeing.
This national organisation is dedicated to promoting the rights of disabled people in the UK. Their website offers a wealth of information on a variety of topics related to Assistive Technology, including accessibility, assistive devices, and communication aids.