Use of computers

For more information please refer to our Computers and ICT information sheet

Abilitynet - Tel: 0800 269545 Email: enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk or sales@abilitynet.org.uk
Website: www.abilitynet.org.uk Scottish branch www.abilitynet.org.uk/com_centre_scotland
It provides assessments, equipment and training to help children with additional needs get the most out of education. In addition it runs free parent information days. The site has factsheets, skillsheets and free downloadable software, and you can buy two great packages of software on USB sticks, AccessFun and AccessAT, at £14.99 each.

Affordable Computer Services (Kent only) - Tel: 01795 439 994 Website: www.affordablecomputerservices.org.uk
A community project set-up to provide low-cost computer training and IT Support to the community of Sittingbourne.

Aidis Trust - Tel: 020 7426 2130 Helpline: 0845 120 3719 Email: info@aidis.org Website: www.aidis.org
A charity that offers free services for disabled people wanting to take advantage of technology.

BECTA - Tel: 0800 877 8777 Email: becta@becta.org.uk Website: www.becta.org.uk
The British Technical Communications & Technology Agency co-ordinates the use of technology in education. Principally advises professionals but also helps parents. Their leaflet on ‘Special Needs and IT’ is particularly helpful.

British Computer Society - Tel: 01793 417424 Email: customerservice@hq.bcs.org.uk Website: www.bcs.org
The BCS Disability Group focuses on the role of IT in giving disabled people a better quality of life. This is the address of the coordinator of the 53 Disabled Specialist Groups within the BCS, who will put parents and professionals in touch with the appropriate group for their area.

ENMAC - Tel: 020 8854 1019 Email: mail@cenmac.com Website: www.cenmac.com/index.php
Unfortunately only works in London, providing assessments of children, loans of equipment and training, but their website has lots of information, equipment and software recommendations and links which are useful wherever you live.

ITCH - Tel: 0800 269545 Website: www.itcanhelp.org.uk
Is a network of volunteers who are able to offer free local computer assistance to disabled people. To contact your local volunteer, go to the site or phone.

Keytools Ltd - Tel: 023 8029 4500 Email: info@keytools.co.uk Website: www.keytools.co.uk
Specialist supplier of hardware and software.

PCD Maltron - Tel: 0845 230 3265 Email: sales@maltron.co.uk Website: www.maltron.com
Computer keyboard designed for touch typing with one hand. Requires good dexterity and uses non-QWERTY layout (instructions and exercises supplied).