Community Learning and Development Device Fund 2022 (360G-SCVO-a133z00000Lw0oWAAR)

The project aims to increase vulnerable and isolated deafblind people’s social connectivity and improve their wellbeing and via assistive technology. This technology will enable Deafblind Scotland members to independently access learning and development programmes to gain new skills and take part in classes which without the technology would be impossible to access.The project will have 2 aspects, firstly a long-term lending library for high tech equipment, and secondly to update equipment within our lending library to allow members to try out new devices and technology.We are aware of 2 Deafblind Scotland members who require specific technology to provide them an opportunity to access learning opportunities. This technology has a high price tag but will be vital in ensuring these members can independently access and attend further education. These members are currently/ hoping to start university courses. The Laptop with Dolphin Guide screen reader technology will enable these members to further their education confidently using technology which is specific to their needs. The second aspect of the project will be to update the technology in DbS Lending Library to allow members to try out new devices and technology. This technology will be available on-site from our Learning and Development Centre in Kirkintilloch; however, we will be able to arrange for this to be couriered/ delivered to members throughout Scotland. Loaning equipment and devices will give members the opportunity to try online courses and classes and broaden their horizons, and also try out equipment to make sure it fits their needs before making a purchase. The ruby magnifiers allow members to receive printed material and paperwork. These devices allow members to maintain independence and follow any coursework or written material. Again, for our members these would be a considerable expense so it is important it would work for the individual before making a purchase.The I-pads have accessible settings which makes this technology life-changing for our members. We have applied for I-pads for many members through the Connecting Scotland scheme, but this has now closed and for new members it would be wonderful to be able to demonstrate and allow members the chance to test out the technology and see how they can use it to expand their learnings.We will also work with our Welfare Rights department who are involved in the Digitally Savvy Project encouraging members to access home-based/ café training sessions on completing benefit forms as well as having the ability to shop around for facilities that will decrease their outgoings such as better interest rates, lower energy rates etc. This will reduce the financial inequalities that many Deafblind people encounter through lack of access to information and choice. By loaning the hardware required to access such choices members will be able to gain skills, confidence, and knowledge to claim for benefits for which they may be entitled, or lower cost deals giving them independence in accessing information and challenging the stigma that so often blocks older people and people with sensory loss accessing a better quality of life.Alexa is a piece of technology which can make a tremendous difference to the lives of deafblind people, especially in terms of learning and development. Alexa makes learning accessible by voice command, translating materials, research and calculations, spell check and dictionary, and play podcasts. This is something which would be wonderful to introduce to our members through our lending library.We will actively advertise and promote the lending library to DbS members through our newsletters and website.