DigiPals (360G-SCVO-a13N2000003vl5MIAQ)

DigiPals project aims to increase social connectivity and improve the wellbeing of deafblind people most of whom live with progressive sight/hearing loss and people with single sensory loss at risk of second sensory loss through support for digital technology skills development. It will increase participants’ understanding/confidence in using digital technology enabling them to make the most of their existing technology devices, try out other recommended devices and increase their abilities to access information important to them.Our Right to Dream Strategy has 7 priorities with cross-cutting theme of Growing Peer Leadership. One of the strongest themes is supporting people early in transition to a second sensory loss. People have recounted harrowing stories of finding their way through transitions on their own. Having modified Deafblind Scotland’s (DbS) Governing documents to include people with a single sensory loss at risk of a second sensory loss, DbS proactively reached out to people at risk of a second sensory loss alongside deafblind people. The central aim of DbS transitional work is to support people emotionally through what can be a distressing experience whilst providing practical assistance to find new coping strategies and adjusted living skills; making it possible to continue to experience a vibrant life of choice.The DigiPals project will complement our SensAble Project - Improving Transitions for people acquiring a second sensory loss. This project provides an early intervention focus helping people to retain as much of their existing coping strategies, skills, and support networks as possible but also to adapt and learn new ways of navigating the world. A key part of SensAble is to facilitate access to peer mentors that can walk alongside people as they transition into and through second sensory losses, helping them to imagine a hopeful future. The DigiPals Project will deliver skills development digital cafes and one-to-one peer digital sessions. This will enable people transitioning through dual sensory loss to maximise the benefits of digital technology including helpful/useful apps. Digitally competent members will support fellow members to improve their technology skills/knowledge. They will provide advice, practical support and sharing knowledge on digital technology for members who prefer a one-to-one approach. Where members live in more remote areas or where more appropriate sessions can be provided by upskilled Guide Communicators staff members. In skills development digital cafes, participants will be supported by their peers sharing tips and advice to ensure they are getting the most out of any existing devices. They will also be introduced to other devices recommended by their peers that may suit their needs. Participants will have access to our technology lending library to try out different technology devices. Participants will be made aware/increase their understanding of helpful/useful apps including:- • Be My Eyes: App that connects blind people with sighted volunteers who can help them with tasks in real-time.• OneStep Reader App: App that reads virtually any text aloud.• TapTapSee: App that identifies objects through photos.• Cash Reader: App that identifies money.• Lazarillo App: App that provides navigation assistance.