technology in the community

Jordyn Zimmerman recently graduated with her bachelors degree in education policy from Ohio University. Diagnosed as autistic, Jordyn did not have access to a communication system until 2014, at the age of 18 years old. She writes for Learning Disability Today about how the world can be made more inclusive of autistic people who use alternative and augmentative communication (AAC).

Chancellor Sajid Javid's Spending Review promised to inject £1 billion into social care. Billy Davis, Hft’s Public Affairs and Policy Manager, tells LDT why the sector needs to "save itself". 

A group of Loughborough University academics have been awarded funding to examine how artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, such as the Amazon Echo, help people with disabilities live independently and explore how they may shape the future of social care.

Trials are underway for a wristband that monitors physiological changes that may precede aggression. Darren Devine discusses how such technology could change the lives of autistic people, their families, and their carers.

Grainne Eloi, Interim Head of Mental Health Services at Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust, discusses how new technology reduces unnecessarily long hospital stays.

Chloe Bull from Talkback UK, an advocacy organisation, discusses how taking taxis can be distressing for people with learning disabilities or autism. She highlights the need for greater disability awareness training. 

Having an autistic spectrum disorder, learning disability, or mental health problem should not prohibit someone from enjoying cultural events such as theatre. A playhouse in Nottingham is using theatre to facilitate discussion and tackle stigma.

Local authorities have been invited to apply for share of the government’s £25 million housing and technology fund for people with learning disabilities.

The quality of Manchester Airport’s Changing Places accessible toilet facilities has been rewarded with a Platinum Award at the Loo of the Year Awards.

Less than half of parents and carers of children with a physical disability, mental health needs or a learning disability feel that staff definitely know how to care for their child’s individual needs according to the first national children’s survey.