Accessible technology products

Specialist and adapted equipment can make using computers easier. This may be at home, work, school or at college or university.

If you're blind or visually impaired

There are different types of computer screen readers available. Some relay back to you, via a synthetic voice, what you are typing. Others read what's on a webpage. You can also get readers that have a Braille output device.

Magnification software products enlarge a particular part of a computer screen.

Closed circuit camera systems can magnify print and text and then display an enlarged version on a television or computer screen. There are also 'standalone' portable versions, which do not require a television or computer.

Stickers can be put onto standard keyboard keys that either present the letters and numbers as Braille or simply increase the size of the characters.

If you have a physical disability

There is equipment to help you use a computer if you have a physical impairment, for example:

a larger keyboard on your computer may help if you have difficulties with dexterity
devices are available that take the place of keyboards but are smaller and need less effort to press the keys
an 'on-screen keyboard' means the user only needs a mouse to select characters on the screen
alternatives to using a standard mouse include joysticks or trackerballs, which can be easier to control and use
pointers and sticks are available that can be attached to the head and used to press keys on a keyboard
as with mobile phones, predictive text can help increase the rate of typing - after typing two or three letters, the user is given a selection of words to choose from

If you have a learning difficulty

Simplified keyboards are available which, for example, contain just the letters of the alphabet. The letters may also be in lowercase. Other keyboards have larger or coloured keys.

You can get software that can present information more simply on the screen. Also, sounds, voices and music can be activated when you complete particular actions and tasks.Other software can help develop learning skills including literacy, numeracy, music and games.

Advice and help from charities

Some voluntary organisations and charities give useful advice about making computers and information technology (IT) easier to use for people with specific disabilities. They also provide information about the types of assistive technology you can buy.

Some organisations run schemes that help disabled people get the most out of technology. These may include:

supplying computer equipment for free or on loan
training people in how to set up and use equipment

Some organisations offer more formal IT training to improve disabled people's career prospects.

Useful contacts for accessible technology - Directgov website

VAT exemptions on products and services for people with disabilities

People with disabilities don't have to pay VAT when they buy equipment designed solely for their use or have equipment adapted so they can use it.

You may not have to pay VAT on computer hardware or software if it helps you overcome difficulties related to your disability. But it must be for use at home. Also, you may not have to pay VAT on the cost of servicing it or getting it repaired.

Advice and financial help in education

Most schools offer advice about technology and there may be specialised equipment available to you.

If you're in higher education, you may be eligible to receive Disabled Students' Allowances (DSAs). One of the things DSAs can help with is paying for equipment and software if you need it to study.

Disabled's Students Allowances - Introduction

Access to Work

Access to Work is a work scheme that provides practical support to disabled people and their employers to help them overcome problems at work. This can include helping to pay for special equipment for the disabled employee.