Digital enablement services
Are you struggling to read books, newspapers, letters or product labels? Do you find it more difficult to keep in touch with friends and family?
Through our assessments, training, groups and online resources; Henshaws digital enablement team are here to find the solution that works for you, no matter what your sight level, age, or technical ability is.
Digital assessments
There are a wide range of products and solutions out there that can help you perform everyday activities, that will enable you to maintain your independence and quality of life. Through a personal one-to-one chat, we’ll assess what your needs are and make suggestions based on the best solutions for you. These may include;
- Optical or electronic magnifiers
- Smartphone and tablet devices
- Specialist text-to-speech devices
- Accessibility software for desktop computers and laptops.
Training
Following your assessment, we may be able to offer complimentary one-to-one training sessions with one of our staff or volunteers in Trafford, Oldham, Bolton or Manchester Central Library.
We also offer some non-tech solutions for those living with macular degeneration, as some people can learn to use any undamaged parts of their central vision. We can teach two techniques, Eccentric Viewing and Steady Eye Strategy that can help you with activities like reading, getting out and about, cooking, looking after yourself or watching TV.
Get in touch to find out more and to book your free session on 0300 222 5555 or email info@henshaws.org.uk.
***During the COVID-19 pandemic, we are continuing to deliver Digital Enablement support both over the phone and face-to-face with home visits (when restrictions allow). This will continue until we are in the position to open our regular venues again.
Please contact us for more information about our current services by calling 0300 222 5555.***
Online support in our Knowledge Village
Our online resources include useful videos, eBooks and blogs providing tips and information on living with sight loss, so you can access our help and advice no matter where you are.
Covering topics as varied as reviews of the latest assistive technology, to tips for communicating with a visually impaired person, and how to safely cross the road. The online resource is growing all the time, and you are sure to find something useful for you, your family member or someone you support as a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions about our digital enablement services
Q. Who can assess these services?
A. Our digital support is for anyone with sight loss at any age or level of knowledge and ability, as well as a range of other disabilities, such as arthritis or dyslexia.
Q. What products are out there?
A. There’s a huge variety of technology available – from free apps on your devices like Microsoft’s Seeing AI, to magnifiers or speech software on your computer such as JAWS. We work with you during your assessment to find the ones that will work best for you. Some of the products we offer specialist knowledge and training for include;
- Apple (iPhones and iPads)
- Optelec
- OrCam
- Dolphin
- Synapptic
- Android
If cost is potentially an issue, there are a number of organisations that may be able to offer financial assistance to fund the purchase of technology and equipment. Download our free list of grant awarding bodies for more information: https://www.henshaws.org.uk/grants/
Q. Where do we offer our digital services?
A. We offer training out in our locations in Tameside, Bolton, Oldham, Trafford and Manchester Central Library, and we can also offer assessments over the phone.
Q. How much does this service cost?
A. Our digital assessments and training are free to access! Our digital social group, Tech Talk, ask for a £2 contribution to help cover group costs.
Q. How can I access this service?
A. Get in touch to book a session with our digital enablement team by emailing info@henshaws.org.uk or ring 0300 222 5555.
"I can read again! I haven't been able to read printed text for 30 years or more, so that's incredible. And all of that is due to Henshaws."
Jim
