Innovative technology that supports independent living for people with disabilities was the focus of a vital Assistive Technology Event hosted by New Directions and presented by Warwickshire County Council Assistive Technology expert Julia Murphy. People supported by New Directions, their families, carers and employees were invited to attend workshops on the day to learn more about assistive technology, what is available and how it can be accessed. New Directions worked in partnership with the Warwickshire County Council to facilitate this highly informative and pioneering event.
Assistive technology is any equipment or service that can support a person to complete a task independently or improve the safety and ease with which this task is carried out. This Assistive Technology Event provided 2 workshops with detailed discussions, instructive slideshow and close up view of numerous examples of life changing technologies. The equipment can supports everyday tasks, assist people to maintain their independence and bring them, their families and carers the peace of mind that someone will still respond when required.
Senior Manager Laura Nisbet said, “It is important that people have an awareness of the benefits of assistive technology and how it can enhance their lives with the reassurance that it is available to compliment the staff support they require. New Directions incorporates assistive technologies into its existing services and will continue to work with new technology as it becomes available. We were keen to host the event to reassure people that assistive technology is not a replacement for staff but a system that can work alongside our support workers to enable the people we support to develop their independence safely.”