Quick Links for Teachers and Professionals
Aidis has three main services. These are our Training sessions, Helpline and this website, www.aidis.org.
Aidis Training sessions are offered primarily to parent and disability groups and the most popular is Informed Consumer. This gives and overview of what hardware and software exists that can enable a Disabled Person to access a computer, from Windows Accessibility Options, through touch screens, switches, and alternative pointing devices to alternative keyboards and literacy software. We can also cover some of the issues surrounding what to consider when buying a computer.
The sessions are held at school or in local meeting rooms, making them as convenient as possible for the attendees. These sessions are provided nationwide, for FREE, as long as parents or Disabled People are attending. This training is also available to statutory organisations at a small cost to cover our expenses. For more details on the courses, contact Simon Rowland, Aidis' Training manager on 0207 426 2130 or by emailing training@aidis.org
The Helpline, which has funding from the Big Lottery Fund, can be reached Monday - Friday, 9.30am - 5.00pm by calling 0845 120 3719 or by emailing support@aidis.org. It is is staffed by a combination of paid staff and volunteers, and can assist with advice on special needs computer equipment for all disabled computer users .
www.aidis.org was re-launched in December 2006 and provides information and advice on adaptations for disability computing, including links to lots of free software to download and basic installation and user guides for much of the software we recommend. The hardware and software sections have reviews of the software and hardware listed. This provides independent reviews (both good and bad!) of the items listed; If you look at any of the items, please submit your thoughts so we can increase the number of reviews listed. The website also has a technical support section, offering advice on what to do when something goes wrong with your computer and how to keep your computer healthy, and a low-cost Shop. The shop has been set up based on feedback from our clients asking where they can buy adaptations. Due to Aidis' purchasing power, we get discounts from our suppliers, which we can pass on to clients. We have to request proof of DLA or AA, but once this has been provided, our products are available at up to a 22% discount when compared with other stores. If you have any questions or comments on the website, please get in touch by emailing web@aidis.org
As these services are FREE, we would appreciate it if you are able to promote our services to your pupils or service users and their families and supporters. We have information leaflets covering them, and if you'd like any copies of these please get in touch either by emailing info@aidis.org or by phoning 0207 426 2130.
Aidis also provides Assessment, Installation and Training and on-going technical support to Disabled home users, their families and supporters, at no cost.