Special Needs
Ability Net
AbilityNet is a charity that brings the benefits of computer technology to adults and children with disabilities. Through a number of centres around the country it offers a comprehensive range of services to disabled people, professionals, employers and statutory bodies. It provides free information and advice on any aspect of the use of a computer by someone with a disability, individual assessment of technology needs, adapted computer equipment with full training and technical support, a programme of awareness education, and consultancy for employers on system and workstation adaptations. In 1999 AbilityNet's staff handled over 16,000 telephone enquiries, saw 1,600 disabled adults and children for individual assessments, training and technical support visits, addressed more than 3,000 attendees on technology awareness sessions, and supplied 650 people with equipment tailored to their personal needs. Each of these services grew between 10% and 35% last year.
The unique strength of AbilityNet is in the extensive experience of its staff teams, and the opportunity this creates to be a major catalyst in the general improvement of service provision to disabled people on the use of computer technology. We maintain high quality on all our services and try to help others attain the same standards.
AbilityNet offers its services through both national and regional centres. In some it employs its own staff, in others it has a partner who is responsible for the entire operation, under the AbilityNet name.
The main funding both nationally and locally is by grants and donations from charitable trusts and companies, helped by fees charged for its professional services. The cost of supply and support of adapted equipment is almost self-funded by sales, the balance being subsidised by charitable donations.
Tel: 0800 269545 (Freephone)
E-mail:
Website: http://www.abilitynet.org.uk/
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