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TechAbility

@techability

Training and consultancy in Assistive and Enabling Technology. Supporting education and care settings, and influencing policy makers. https://www.techability.org.uk/

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05.02.2025
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Latest posts by TechAbility @techability

Three people in a semi circle facing each other. They are smiling.

Three people in a semi circle facing each other. They are smiling.

Call for presentations at #TechAbility26 is now open.

Showcase your #AssistiveTechnology practice or highlight your impactful research to other #ATech professionals.

Complete the presenter call form to be considered bit.ly/ta26presente...
Deadline for submission is 24 April.

06.03.2026 10:19 πŸ‘ 10 πŸ” 9 πŸ’¬ 1 πŸ“Œ 0
Three people in a semi circle facing each other. They are smiling.

Three people in a semi circle facing each other. They are smiling.

Call for presentations at #TechAbility26 is now open.

Showcase your #AssistiveTechnology practice or highlight your impactful research to other #ATech professionals.

Complete the presenter call form to be considered bit.ly/ta26presente...
Deadline for submission is 24 April.

06.03.2026 10:19 πŸ‘ 10 πŸ” 9 πŸ’¬ 1 πŸ“Œ 0
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Technology for learners with PMLD - TechAbility Learn about the types of technology which can support learners with PMLD and how to effectively support their use with learners.

Due to high demand we have released another date in May for this popular couse. Book now to avoid disappointment if you wish to learn about the types of technology which can support learners with PMLD and how to effectively support their use with learners ⬇️

www.techability.org.uk/training/tec...

25.02.2026 14:02 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
Preview
Technology for learners with PMLD - TechAbility Learn about the types of technology which can support learners with PMLD and how to effectively support their use with learners.

Due to high demand we have released another date in May for this popular couse. Book now to avoid disappointment if you wish to learn about the types of technology which can support learners with PMLD and how to effectively support their use with learners ⬇️

www.techability.org.uk/training/tec...

25.02.2026 14:02 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0

Inclusive Mainstream Fund
E1.6bn
2026-2029
Broad inclusive provision funding


Experts at Hand
E1.8bn
2026-2029 LA-commissioned specialist
support services (eg EP, SALT, OT)


Best Start Family Hubs (SEND
Offer)
Β£200m
Unclear Equip hubs with SEND support /
outreach offer


Teacher Training for SEND
Β£200m
2026-2029 Training course across multiple
stas of SEND for all teaching


High Needs Provisional Capital
Allocation
Β£3.74bn
2025-2030 SEND capital funding (infrastructure, buildings) to create around 60,000 "specialist places," plus "inclusion bases" for
all secondary schools

Inclusive Mainstream Fund E1.6bn 2026-2029 Broad inclusive provision funding Experts at Hand E1.8bn 2026-2029 LA-commissioned specialist support services (eg EP, SALT, OT) Best Start Family Hubs (SEND Offer) Β£200m Unclear Equip hubs with SEND support / outreach offer Teacher Training for SEND Β£200m 2026-2029 Training course across multiple stas of SEND for all teaching High Needs Provisional Capital Allocation Β£3.74bn 2025-2030 SEND capital funding (infrastructure, buildings) to create around 60,000 "specialist places," plus "inclusion bases" for all secondary schools

There’ll be lots of references to different pots of SEND funding today: some new, some
not. Here’s a table showing recent announcements

23.02.2026 07:20 πŸ‘ 6 πŸ” 4 πŸ’¬ 2 πŸ“Œ 2
1. Add alt text to imagery. Simply write a description of what the image is of to give visually impaired people equal context. If the image has no purpose (e.g. an icon) mark it as decorative”. A screenshot displays where to locate the alt text feature in the menu of Word and by right clicking on the image, along with how to set the image as decorative.

1. Add alt text to imagery. Simply write a description of what the image is of to give visually impaired people equal context. If the image has no purpose (e.g. an icon) mark it as decorative”. A screenshot displays where to locate the alt text feature in the menu of Word and by right clicking on the image, along with how to set the image as decorative.

2. Use structured, built-in heading levels to enable people navigate the document with a keyboard. Use only one Heading 1 <H1> on a document and don’t skip levels. Examples show where headings can be added and stylised, along with an example of a correct heading structure.

2. Use structured, built-in heading levels to enable people navigate the document with a keyboard. Use only one Heading 1 <H1> on a document and don’t skip levels. Examples show where headings can be added and stylised, along with an example of a correct heading structure.

3. Give meaningful titles and link text. To assist screen reader users to locate and navigate a document, provide meaningful document titles and write clear headings.  Another important consideration is giving direction with link text. An example shows an incorrect way to write a link, saying β€˜click here’, compared to another which says β€˜access our inclusive services’

3. Give meaningful titles and link text. To assist screen reader users to locate and navigate a document, provide meaningful document titles and write clear headings. Another important consideration is giving direction with link text. An example shows an incorrect way to write a link, saying β€˜click here’, compared to another which says β€˜access our inclusive services’

4. Run a built-in accessibility check. Before finishing any document make sure you run an accessibility check. This will flag any actions that may have been missed, which could better assist your readers, and how to fix the issues.

4. Run a built-in accessibility check. Before finishing any document make sure you run an accessibility check. This will flag any actions that may have been missed, which could better assist your readers, and how to fix the issues.

Like a website, documents need to be accessible to ensure everyone gets equal access to its content. This post looks into built-in tools and best practices that enhance the user experience for all.

Learn more in the thread πŸ‘‡

#A11y #Accessibility #InclusiveDesign #DigitalAccessibility #Disabilities

13.02.2026 09:41 πŸ‘ 0 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 1 πŸ“Œ 0

This will come as no surprise to people using symbols in #AAC and to support literacy.
Reliable and robust usage of symbols or emojis depends shared understanding of meaning, including cultural context.
Even nouns can be tricky e.g. Telephone as πŸ“ž.

19.01.2026 14:05 πŸ‘ 0 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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Can you help us build a clearer picture of AAC access in assessments and exams in Scotland?

Find out more and how you can help in our CALL blog: bit.ly/4byw09O

19.01.2026 09:28 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0

7 weeks ago, but we hope you're still buzzing from the conversations around #AssistiveTechnology and putting the learning into practice.
Plans are underway for #TechAbility26 - exciting announcements in the next few weeks...

06.01.2026 10:42 πŸ‘ 0 πŸ” 0 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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Professionals from general FE & specialist colleges pledging their support for #ThePowerOfSpecialistFE campaign at today’s AoC SEND Conference. #AoCSEND25 @aoc-info.bsky.social

Find out more: www.specialistfe.com

02.12.2025 14:17 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
Charlie and Lee standing on the TechAbility stage. At Charlie's feet, there are a number of carrots with wires attached.

Charlie and Lee standing on the TechAbility stage. At Charlie's feet, there are a number of carrots with wires attached.

Charlie and Lee from The Music Works kicking off a keynote at TechAbility Conference truly like no other (as promised!) with the tantalising promise of using ... carrots to make music.

#TechAbility25

19.11.2025 13:25 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 0 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
Neil Harrod-Beck smiles on the TechAbility stage as he delivers his chair's speech

Neil Harrod-Beck smiles on the TechAbility stage as he delivers his chair's speech

Numerous delegates seated in a theatre style set up listening to the conference.

Numerous delegates seated in a theatre style set up listening to the conference.

#TechAbility25 is a go! Delighted to see so many familiar and new faces at conference today. We've got some great sessions lined up throughout the day - let's get going with it all!

19.11.2025 10:12 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 1
Room of people looking at a presenter. Text: Welcome to #TechAbility25

Room of people looking at a presenter. Text: Welcome to #TechAbility25

Less than 48 hours until #TechAbility25 begins...

The TechAbility team are making sure all ducks are in a row so delegates, exhibitors and speakers have a great experience.

We look forward to seeing you on Wednesday!

17.11.2025 11:15 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 0 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0

Still some delegate places left.
Hear about real world practice and implementation in #AssistiveTechnology.
A packed programme, an exhibition and a keynote where you can experience the transformative power of music making.
19 Nov. Nottingham.
www.techability.org.uk/techability-...
#ATech #EdTech

06.11.2025 10:42 πŸ‘ 0 πŸ” 0 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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TechAbility Conference is in just over two weeks - join us for a great day looking at Assistive Technology practice and research. Still time to book your tickets - don't miss out!

www.techability.org.uk/techability-...

04.11.2025 09:51 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 2
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TechAbility Conference is in just over two weeks - join us for a great day looking at Assistive Technology practice and research. Still time to book your tickets - don't miss out!

www.techability.org.uk/techability-...

04.11.2025 09:51 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 2
The practical use of 3D printing to enhance educational access. Dean Hall.

The practical use of 3D printing to enhance educational access. Dean Hall.

Highly impactful case studies of how 3D Printing has enabled access to education.
At #TechAbility25, Dean will share stories of bespoke solutions along with advice on #3DPrinting implementation.
www.techability.org.uk/techability-...

31.10.2025 12:16 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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Japanese Gaming Industry Moves to Improve Accessibility Tokyo, Oct. 27 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese gaming industry is working to improve video game accessibility by de…

Japanese Gaming Industry Moves to Improve Accessibility www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2... #a11y

28.10.2025 15:21 πŸ‘ 0 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
Exploring hybrid help: GenAI blurring the lines between personal and technological aids | Richard Fletcher

Exploring hybrid help: GenAI blurring the lines between personal and technological aids | Richard Fletcher

In a world where technology is everywhere, is there a difference between personal and technological aids? At #TechAbility25 we'll look at the impact of GenAI as a virtual adviser, tutor or therapist, and how educators may navigate this emerging landscape. www.techability.org.uk/techability-...

20.10.2025 12:16 πŸ‘ 0 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
AAC and Assistive Technology: more integrated support
Tina Voizey and Fil McIntyre

AAC and Assistive Technology: more integrated support Tina Voizey and Fil McIntyre

Join us at #TechAbility25 to learn about how organisations supporting AT & AAC users can and should work more collaboratively. Are they separate services, or should they be run by integrated teams? We'll look at real world examples of frustrations and successes www.techability.org.uk/techability-...

06.10.2025 09:25 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
AAC and Assistive Technology: more integrated support
Tina Voizey and Fil McIntyre

AAC and Assistive Technology: more integrated support Tina Voizey and Fil McIntyre

Join us at #TechAbility25 to learn about how organisations supporting AT & AAC users can and should work more collaboratively. Are they separate services, or should they be run by integrated teams? We'll look at real world examples of frustrations and successes www.techability.org.uk/techability-...

06.10.2025 09:25 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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TechAbility Conference 2025 - TechAbility 19 November 2025Β  The impact of a conference is proven by whether delegates apply what they have learned. 90% of delegates at last year’s TechAbility Conference said they were very likely, or likely t...

For #TechAbility25 - a keynote presentation like no other! We're thrilled to have Charlie Baxter and Lee Holder from The Music Works with us to explore the transformative power of music making. Real stories, with real impact.
Join us on 19 November. www.techability.org.uk/techability-...

09.07.2025 14:25 πŸ‘ 3 πŸ” 4 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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Why digital accessibility should be a B2B priority too

When it comes to making digital products and websites accessible, there is a tendency to focus on accessibility for B2C customers. This article looks into how investing in accessibility also gives B2B brands a competitive edge: zurl.co/6YAg3

#A11y #Accessibility #B2B

19.08.2025 07:49 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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2026 Applications Open! | Ace Centre We are excited to announce that the British Assistive Technology Scholarship is now accepting applications for the 2026 AT Scholar program. Established in 2020, the AT Scholar program seeks out talent...

Last chance to submit an application to the AT Scholar programme is MIDNIGHT TONIGHT.
A massive opportunity for an intensive few days learning more about #AssistiveTechnology then bringing it all back to the UK.
Don't like flying, or can't get away? There's an online option.
bit.ly/ATScholar26

25.07.2025 11:36 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
DfE announces pilot of SEND assistive technology lending libraries for schools.
Image of pupils at Middle Park Primary with CENMAC Advisory Teacher Carly Adkinson

DfE announces pilot of SEND assistive technology lending libraries for schools. Image of pupils at Middle Park Primary with CENMAC Advisory Teacher Carly Adkinson

Department for Education has launched a new pilot scheme of β€œlending libraries” for #assistivetechnology to support children & young people with #specialeducationalneeds.
Find out more in the latest blog: bit.ly/DfE_ATlendin...

@departmentforedu.bsky.social #SEND #Education #Inclusion #ATech #SEND

27.06.2025 10:19 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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TechAbility Conference 2025 - TechAbility 19 November 2025Β  The impact of a conference is proven by whether delegates apply what they have learned. 90% of delegates at last year’s TechAbility Conference said they were very likely, or likely t...

For #TechAbility25 - a keynote presentation like no other! We're thrilled to have Charlie Baxter and Lee Holder from The Music Works with us to explore the transformative power of music making. Real stories, with real impact.
Join us on 19 November. www.techability.org.uk/techability-...

09.07.2025 14:25 πŸ‘ 3 πŸ” 4 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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Webinars - TechAbility Techability Webinars Access all recordings on the TechAbility YouTube channel Featured Webinars

Help learners fulfil their potential in employment by enhancing their independence skills.
Free webinar Tuesday 24 June www.techability.org.uk/webinars/
Register now to hear how The Oaks Specialist College are working with @Assitiv to transform real life work experience.

23.06.2025 09:41 πŸ‘ 4 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
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Natspec National Conference 2025 - Natspec Join us at the Natspec National Conference 2025!

Not long until Natspec National Conference 2025! But there is still time to join us for our packed two day event looking at anything and everything about SEND learners in further education. Don't miss out!

More details and booking: natspec.org.uk/events/natsp...

29.05.2025 16:25 πŸ‘ 1 πŸ” 4 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0

Use the #Accessibility tools you already own!
Still a few places left on this course - registration closes today.

03.06.2025 09:20 πŸ‘ 2 πŸ” 1 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0
A female college student is sitting at a desk smiling whilst using an accessible website on both a laptop and mobile device. To the side, text reads β€œHow HeX transforms the learning experience: Accessible design & web development, Website usability audit testing, Inclusive training for teachers, support staff and in-house developers, Empathy lab experiences, and Accessibility consultancy. Between 17-18 June visit us at The Natspec National Conference”

A female college student is sitting at a desk smiling whilst using an accessible website on both a laptop and mobile device. To the side, text reads β€œHow HeX transforms the learning experience: Accessible design & web development, Website usability audit testing, Inclusive training for teachers, support staff and in-house developers, Empathy lab experiences, and Accessibility consultancy. Between 17-18 June visit us at The Natspec National Conference”

In 2 weeks time, we will be at the @natspec.bsky.social National Conference.

If you're attending, visit our stall, where we will be raising awareness of digital barriers in education.

Find out more about our inclusive services: zurl.co/o8AjF

#Education #A11y #Accessibility

03.06.2025 08:00 πŸ‘ 4 πŸ” 2 πŸ’¬ 0 πŸ“Œ 0