How We Help
Aidis has 32 years of experience in using technology to help disabled people. Our technicians cover the whole of the United Kingdom. They carry out the traditional work of the Trust; giving computers, specialised equipment and adaptations to disabled people of all ages.
In the light of a major programme of pilot projects, appraisals, evaluation and research over the last twelve months, Aidis is developing its range of services. We are meeting the needs of disabled people today by expanding the training and support services we offer the disabled community.
Aidis’ expertise
Disabled people cannot simply be given a computer. They cannot even be given a computer with special adaptations. They must have very specific equipment that is right for them; they must have proper training; and they must have effective support. Aidis has the expertise and experience to provide these things to the disabled community. This is what Aidis exists to do.
Feedback from Aidis pilot projects indicates we do give the right equipment, we do offer proper training and we do support people in a simple and straightforward way. Appraisals tell us that over 90% of our clients use equipment we provide every day.
The wider disabled community
A study published in May 2004 by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation found that 43% of the disabled community who have specialist devices have problems with their equipment. Others did not have available what they thought they needed, and still others did not know what equipment or software they would need to use a computer effectively.
Aidis believes all disabled people should
be able to get the advice, training and support they
need. Having already developed a successful relationship
with our existing clients, we would like to offer our
expertise and experience to the wider disabled community
who continue to struggle.
This major development of our core services
allows us to tackle isolation and social exclusion by
adopting a more flexible approach and offering a greater
range of services.
Each and every disabled person who needs Aidis’ help will be offered a package of services and/or equipment suited specifically to them.
New service delivery
Our services have developed in response to and in conjunction with our Disabled service users. This has led to the following package of services:
- Needs led, outcomes based technical assessments of the most appropriate hardware and software to enable a person to harness the benefits of ICT.
- Specialist ICT training in Disabled people’s homes.
- Courses and workshops for local and national groups.
- A technical support helpline for all Disabled people.
- A new website, offering:
- advice, information and support on all aspects of computing for Disabled people.
- A non-profit shop giving substantial discounts to people in receipt of Disability Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance.
Result
By providing individually tailored packages of equipment and services we will be able to help many more disabled people. Many people now have the equipment required, but lack the training and support necessary to use it effectively. Others may have standard equipment but need the means to access it. Still others need everything.
Aidis can now cater to each according to his/her need.
