With Deaf Awareness Week coming up from 6 - 12 May 2024, we're highlighting some ground-breaking tech and digital resources that might make a difference to you or someone you know who is d/Deaf or has hearing loss or a hearing impairment.

1. Blog: 9 apps to help people who are D/deaf or have hearing loss

Check out this bite-sized selection of the latest tech options available for communication, leisure and education for people who have hearing loss.

Access the advice

2. Factsheet: Hearing loss and computing - including an Easy Read version

Assistive devices can transcend potential barriers, but each person and their requirements are unique.

If you're supporting someone at work with a hearing loss, you should also enquire about and provide reasonable adjustments, adaptations and support so that people with hearing loss can enjoy equal access to services and do not face barriers to employment or experience discrimination at work.

Read the Hearing loss factsheet (you can also download the Easy Read version)

3. Video: Top tips for how tech can help with hearing loss

During this free webinar playback AbilityNet, Thoughtworks, and SignHealth, shared their top tips on how tech can help d/Deaf people and those who have experienced hearing loss. The recording includes British Sign Language translation, and transcript download.

4. Get help from our Tech Volunteers

AbilityNet's network of 450+ Tech Volunteers provide free IT support to older people and disabled people of any age. They can help you with all sorts of technology challenges. Get in touch for support with tech advice for hearing-related questions and other issues.

Use our online tool My Computer My Way for step-by-step guidance about getting online and using your digital device.

5. Book Disability Awareness Training for your team

Find out from disabled people with lived experience how technology can support those who are D/deaf or hard of hearing. Choose from in-house training for your team, an individual online course or eLearning.

Some comments from our lived experience training courses including hearing, visual, physical, neurodiversity and mental health topics:

• "The panellists speaking about their lives experience was incredibly helpful and informative."
• "Really agree with others - best online training session I have attended."
• "Being able to listen to lived experiences of people was the most valuable for me, as it is only so much you can learn from theory and books."

Book team training

6. Attend a free webinar: How to get help with your digital devices

Join a FREE webinar on Thursday 6 June 2024 between 1pm - 2pm BST to learn how technology can provide a helping hand to disabled people and older people. Experts from AbilityNet will be joined by guest speakers from BT Group to highlight how we can help with your tech queries and provide 121 support.

In the webinar you'll discover:

• Simple ways to learn how to use your devices
• Tips for assistive technology that can help with hearing, visual, motor and cognitive impairments - including accessing and using the tools that are already present on many common digital devices
• How to get help where you live from an AbilityNet or BT Group volunteer

Register for the webinar

7. Further hearing loss and technology resources

Around 12 million people in the UK are D/deaf or have hearing loss. We've gathered a range of resources you can signpost people to, to help individuals manage their hearing loss and remove potential barriers to full participation in education, work, and leisure activities. 

Explore AbilityNet's hearing-related resources 

Can you help someone else use a digital device?

How AbilityNet can help you

AbilityNet provides a range of free services to help disabled people and older people.

• Call our helpline: 0300 180 0028
  Please note: calls to our helpline number cost no more than a national rate call to an 01 or 02 number and count towards any inclusive minutes in the same way as 01 and 02 calls, and AbilityNet does not receive any money from these calls
• Access free factsheets about technology. Topics include voice recognition and keyboard alternatives.
• My Computer My Way: a free interactive guide to all the accessibility features built into current desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

AbilityNet accessibility services

• Speak to our experts 
• View our accessibility products and services
• Access free accessibility webinars through AbilityNet Live
• Book onto an online training course

Support AbilityNet

If you're able to help us help others please donate to AbilityNet

Accessibility overlays have emerged as a hotly debated topic within the accessibility community. These tools, offered as solutions to make websites more accessible, often raise more questions than answers. 

In this blog post, we explore the challenges surrounding accessibility overlays with AbilityNet’s Principal Accessibility Consultant, Joe Chidzik.  

What are Accessibility Overlays? 

Accessibility overlays are third-party technologies designed to remedy accessibility issues on websites. They promise to address a range of accessibility challenges, from providing alternative text for images to enhancing text readability and colour contrast. However, Joe points out, the reality is not that simple.  

Overreliance on Overlays

One of the primary concerns surrounding accessibility overlays is the temptation to rely solely on technology to solve complex accessibility issues. 

Joe says, "It's good that we explore how technology can be used to make more accessible experiences, but the claims made by a lot of overlay companies are problematic. They claim to fix all problems whereas, as an accessibility expert, I know that some of those problems are only solvable by people." 

While these tools may appear to offer some quick fixes, they often fall short in providing comprehensive solutions. Joe cautions against the misconception that they can single-handedly ensure compliance with accessibility standards. 

To fully meet the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), you must fix all problems. This means doing a detailed audit of your website, using both automatic tools and human expert testers, and fixing any accessibility errors right where they start. Learn more about manual accessibility audit services conducted by our expert consultants. 

The Human Element of Accessibility 

At the heart of the debate lies the fundamental principle that accessibility is a human endeavour.  

While technology can certainly aid in the accessibility journey, it cannot replace the insights and expertise of disabled individuals. Joe emphasises the importance of involving users in the accessibility process, as they are best positioned to provide meaningful feedback and insights. 

Engaging in disabled user research and testing can offer invaluable insights into the real-world experiences of disabled individuals, helping to identify and address accessibility barriers effectively.

Learn more about our user research and testing service

The Pitfalls of Automated Solutions 

One of the key challenges posed by accessibility overlays is their reliance on automated algorithms. Joe points out as an example; overlays can overlook the task of generating alternative text for images.  

Joe further illustrates, alternative text "is a fundamental aspect of accessibility and the first criterion that many people learn about." 

"When an author of a page uses an image, they are really the best person to know what that image is trying to convey. Why do they want to put that image there? Is it conveying an emotional feel? And if software comes along and says, "I know what the alternative text for this image is", I'm a bit suspicious of that. Content is created for people to consume, not technology. So, we should not rely on technology to tell us if content is accessible or not.” 

Empowering Users

Another aspect worth considering is the duplication of features already available on users' devices. Joe explains that “a lot of overlays will have features to enlarge the text or change the colours on the screen. That's good and useful for some people, they will benefit from that.” 

“However, if people learn how to do it on their computer, as these features are readily available, they have a lot more power, and can use them across the web on any site they visit.” You can find information on how to make your own computer easier to use – by making text larger, changing your mouse cursor size, and more by checking out our free My Computer My Way resource! 

Moving Forward: A Call for Collaboration 

As the debate surrounding accessibility overlays continues, it's crucial to adopt a collaborative approach that prioritises the input of all stakeholders. 

While accessibility overlays may offer some benefits, they are not the solution for all accessibility challenges. By embracing a holistic approach that values human insights and collaboration, we can create digital experiences that are truly inclusive for all. 

Take Action: Schedule an Accessibility Audit 

To ensure your website is truly accessible, enquire for an accessibility website or app audit conducted by our expert accessibility consultants and uncover issues that automation alone cannot detect. Let's work together towards a more inclusive online environment. 

Enquire about our accessibility audit service

These quotes were from an interview Joe Chidzik did with Bowen Craggs. Read the full interview on the Bowen Craggs website.  

Navigating the online world can be overwhelming, especially if you're unsure about searching for information, figuring out which websites to trust, or understanding how your digital device works.

If you're 65 years old or over, live in Birmingham or nearby, and are eager to improve your digital skills, AbilityNet can help!

Join AbilityNet in partnership with BT Group for upcoming free digital skills sessions in Birmingham.

Expert Digital Skills Trainer, Mohammed Iltaf and the BT team will be your guide at these engaging sessions. 

The sessions will be delivered in English, however Mohammed can talk in Potwari, Urdu and Punjabi to assist learning.

What can I expect during the sessions?

The sessions are designed to address any tech concerns you might have, and empower you with the skills needed to navigate the digital world safely and with confidence.

Our trainer is dedicated to providing personalised assistance, answering any questions you may have, and helping you become more comfortable with your digital device and the online world.

Tea and biscuits will be available during the sessions too.

Where and when are the sessions being held?

The Senior Skills Sessions run from 11am to 1pm on the following dates:

• Tuesday 4th June: Getting started - (get to know your tech, navigating, common settings, troubleshooting tips, jargon etc)
• Tuesday 11th June: Learning the basics - (emails, downloading apps, staying safer, 4G-5G)
• Tuesday 18th June: Everyday Tasks - (managing health, public services, shopping, banking)
• Tuesday 25th June: Personal interests - (social media, audiobooks, watching TV and films)

BT Group Office Address: BT Group, BT Snowhill 3, Queensway, Birmingham, B4 6GA

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to boost your digital skills!

How do I book my place?

Email digitalskills@abilitynet.org.uk with your name and phone number and our team will be in touch to confirm your place.

You can also call our helpline on 0300 180 0028* during UK office hours to register.

Free webinar: Dementia and simple tech tweaks that can help

Join our FREE webinar with our experts from AbilityNet and Alzheimer's Society, who will share helpful tips on adjustments to tech that can make a big difference to those with dementia, Alzheimer's and cognitive disabilities.

Come along on Wednesday 10 July 2024 between 1pm - 2pm BST.


Register for the webinar

I don't live in Birmingham, how can I get digital skills help?

If you're over 65 years of age and looking to build your skills, we're offering free digital skills sessions in areas in and around London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff. 

Trainers can build something bespoke for your group or for an individual and run sessions including:

• Getting to know your Smartphone or Tablet
• Staying Safer Online
• Getting started with Email
• Using Social Media, e.g. Facebook
• Online entertainment, e.g. watching TV online
• How to access Public Services e.g. Gov.UK
• How to make a video call
• How to manage your health online
• How to bank online

Attend a free session

I want to know about the BT switchover from analogue to digital

We have lots of information which can help you in our blog: Everything you need to know about Digital Voice

How AbilityNet can help

• Call AbilityNet's helpline on 0300 180 0028
• Request help from an AbilityNet volunteer
• See our database of FREE factsheets
• Access FREE webinars about technology and disability

*Please note: calls to our helpline number cost no more than a national rate call to an 01 or 02 number and count towards any inclusive minutes in the same way as 01 and 02 calls, and AbilityNet does not receive any money from these calls

Guest blog: Written by PMAC

We’re a world obsessed with technology. It’s everywhere, and it can’t really be escaped anymore. Whether it’s your toddler or grandma, they’re surrounded by different types of technology, and while this has its downfalls, access to such great tech has its many benefits. 

Since the creation of social media, forums, videos, and virtual meeting spaces, you can now connect and socialise with someone on the other side of the world in real-time.

Vital support such as mental health counselling and even speaking with a GP can now be accomplished from the comfort of a sofa, bed, or even while on holiday. 

This easy connectivity is particularly beneficial when it comes to mental health support, as it provides access to online communities where empathy, understanding, and mutual support thrive. 

How digital technology can connect people to a community 

Virtual support groups, mental health apps, and online forums exemplify how digital technology can serve as a lifeline, connecting individuals to communities that resonate with their experiences and challenges. For many, these digital spaces offer the anonymity and safety needed to discuss their feelings and seek advice openly. 

These digital platforms can cultivate a wonderful sense of belonging, community and safety. Community groups and forums, even some influencers, offer a space where individuals feel seen, heard, and understood. 

The shared experiences within these communities can validate feelings and encourage positive steps towards well-being. Hearing stories of positive change can help others see the light at the end of a very dark tunnel and possibly even save a life.

Despite being between strangers, these digital connections are vital for daily support and motivation, reminding individuals that they are not alone in their mental and emotional wellbeing journeys. 

Digital technology and access to modern healthcare 

It’s not just the community aspect that comes with technology; it’s the wealth of resources it holds. With just a quick search, those in need can find videos, podcasts, eBooks, one-pagers, and even have a free chat with a trained crisis counsellor. These resources can be a safety device for people on long waiting lists or not yet ready to seek face-to-face support. 

Telehealth services have emerged as a vital component, offering remote consultations with healthcare professionals via video, phone, or messaging. You can have appointments with your GP via video call, have CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) over the phone, or request a prescription via text message. 

This innovation has proved invaluable, especially for those in remote areas, those with mobility challenges, or those with specific mental health conditions, as it ensures that high-quality healthcare is just a few clicks away. 

The anonymity and privacy offered by digital platforms can encourage more people to seek help for mental health issues, breaking down traditional barriers to treatment. Men, for example, who are known to be less likely to seek mental health support, can use telehealth services to keep their anonymity until they’re ready to speak out. 

Over the past couple of years, especially since the pandemic, mobile health apps such as Headspace and wearable technology like smartwatches have also played a critical role in promoting well-being.

From reminders to take medication, reduce stress and drink water to monitoring physical activity, heart rates and oxygen levels, these simple tools empower individuals to take charge of their health and well-being. These devices are changing the healthcare space by providing tailored wellness advice and giving people a sense of control.

The data they store can also be handy for healthcare professionals, which provides more regular and personalised insights into a patient's health. For example, the Apple Watch can perform an ECG, although there are doubts about how reliable this is. 

While Dr Google can’t always be trusted, and it’s vital to raise your concerns with a healthcare professional, access to vast medical information via the internet gives people more understanding and control over their healthcare options. 

Why accessible digital technology can improve purpose 

The relationship between technology and mental well-being is a highly discussed topic. Plenty of research suggests that our ease of access to so much information through technology is bad for our mental health. While this may be true in some respects, the benefits of technology cannot be ignored. 

When tailored to individual needs and interests, technology can significantly enhance one's sense of purpose and well-being. 

Firstly, digital platforms offer unprecedented access to communities and resources that were previously hard to reach or non-existent. For those with niche or specialist interests, this means the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals across the globe, cultivating a sense of belonging and community. 

New mums can share their worries, questions and experiences through Facebook groups, and women going through fertility treatment can vent on apps like Peanut. Men who want to seek mental health treatment but don’t want to share that information with others can talk to a mental health professional through BetterHelp. 

These apps that can be accessed through phones, laptops, iPads and even some Smart TVs are bringing isolated people together, which shouldn’t be forgotten. 

These platforms also help upskill or engage people in their chosen hobbies. Technology now allows you to completely change your career through online skill academies, join virtual choirs, participate in virtual pub quizzes, and have a voice in healthy debates. It opens up everyone to another little world.

All of this can lead to a heightened sense of achievement, self-esteem and personal growth. 

Technology is revolutionising healthcare delivery, infusing it with newfound accessibility, tailor-made care, and unmatched efficiency. With each stride in digital innovation, we're forging a path towards a future where every individual, no matter where they are or what challenges they face, can access the highest-quality healthcare and receive the support they need for optimal well-being. 

It's a journey scented with hope, promise, and the profound belief that no one should ever be left behind in their pursuit of health and happiness.

About PMAC

PMAC is a UK-based organisation of mental health training professionals, providing psychologically-informed workplace training to businesses in the UK, helping to create a healthier and more productive working environment.

Further resources 

• Book Disability Awareness Training for your workplace
• 9 ways to promote accessibility for Global Accessibility Awareness Day 2024
• Blog: Six ways tech can support your mental health and aid anxiety
• Keep up to date with accessibility issues with the AbilityNet newsletter 
• Find out more about AbilityNet's free live webinars

AbilityNet provides a range of free services to help disabled people and older people. If you can afford it, please donate to help us support older and disabled people through technology

Social media has become a powerful tool for communication, networking, and brand promotion. However, amidst the hustle and bustle of digital engagement, accessibility is often overlooked.  

This blog shares three top tips that sheds light on key considerations for accessible social media beyond alternative text. 

1. Unveiling the Invisible Text Trap

When announcing collaborations or important information on social networks like Threads, Instagram or X/Twitter, be cautious with third-party text formatting tools. While they can make your post visually appealing by emphasising text like an artist or event name, they might render the text invisible or unreadable to users who can't see special characters. 

So, here's the golden rule: stick to the formatting options provided by the social network itself. If it doesn't support fancy styling, don't force it. By keeping it simple, you ensure your content remains visible and impactful to all users. 

Remember, the goal is to make the most important words in your announcement shine, not vanish into thin air! 

2. The Case for Camel Case Hashtags

Hashtags are a powerful tool for boosting your social media content, but they can sometimes backfire if not used carefully. Imagine you're promoting someone called Roy's album launch party with the hashtag #royalbumparty.  

In the world of hashtags, where words blend together, there's room for confusion. Without proper spacing or capitalisation, Roy-album-party could be misinterpreted as royal-bum-party.  

To avoid unintended consequences, embrace camel case. This means capitalising the first letter of each word within the hashtag, like this: #RoyAlbumParty. Not only does this eliminate ambiguity, but it also ensures readability for everyone, including screen readers. 

So, next time you're crafting hashtags, remember clarity is key! 

3. Decoding Emoji Etiquette 

Let's talk about emojis – those little characters that add flair to your social media posts.  

Are emojis accessible? Each emoji carries its own meaning, which most assistive technology like screen readers will convey to users. But here's where it gets tricky: what you think an emoji means might not align with its actual definition. Ever thought you were sharing a shocked face, only to find out it's a “hushed face”? 

Take the mind blown emoji, for example. Its official meaning? A “shocked face with an exploding head”.  

Now, let's discuss the red flag emoji . While it's commonly used to signal warnings, its official meaning has nothing to do with the colour red. Officially, it represents a “triangular flag on a post”. 

Using too many emojis can be tiresome for users, especially if they have lengthy descriptions and are being read out by a screen reader. To keep things engaging, limit your emoji use and place them towards the end of your post. This goes for hashtags and links too. 

So, before sprinkling emojis liberally, do a quick check on their meanings, perhaps on a site like Emojipedia. And remember, when it comes to non-essential elements in your post, less is often more! 

Embrace accessible social media

If your entire marketing team could benefit from accessible social media practices, explore our in-house training option.

Enquire about in-house accessible social media training

Alternatively, you can book onto our upcoming online training course. 

This blog is a loose transcription of AbilityNet’s TechShare Pro conference 2023 selection of bite-sized 'Lightning Talks' from accessibility experts, highlighting top tips and advice on accessibility topics.  

Paul Speller, expert accessibility consultant at AbilityNet, shares red flags to look out for in your online content so you can master accessible social media. Watch the video recording below.

In a positive new initiative, students across England have come together to champion digital accessibility in further education.

This new campaign, titled Access and Assistance for All, is a collaborative effort aimed at changing the way colleges approach accessibility, ensuring that every student has equal access to educational resources.

In this article, we highlight the details of this inspiring campaign, including its five key goals, and signpost the way you can actively participate.

Who created the Access and Assistance for All Campaign?

The Access and Assistance for All campaign includes 15 regional champions — young people who have collaborated with organisations such as The British Youth Council, University College London (UCL), The Thomas Pocklington Trust, and The Kent and Medway Progression Federation. Their collective vision is to create a more inclusive and accessible learning environment for all students. 

What can colleges do to improve digital accessibility?

The Access and Assistance for All campaign provides five key goals for your college to adopt:

1. Making learning resources accessible: The campaign advocates for the transformation of all learning materials into formats that can be easily accessed by all students, including those using assistive technologies.
    
2. Encouraging accessibility champions: Each college is encouraged to appoint an accessibility champion who will champion the cause and grow the practice of digital accessibility within their institution.
    
3. Learn about assistive technology: The campaign seeks to ensure colleges are aware of assistive technology and provide guidance on accessing free accessibility tools. 
    
4. Use their Access and Assistance for All template: Colleges are encouraged to adopt the campaign’s template, ensuring consistency in accessibility efforts across institutions.
    
5. Raising awareness among college staff: The campaign aims to ensure that all college staff members are informed about the initiative and support its goals.

The campaign has been in development over the past year and is now gaining momentum. It has garnered national support from influential bodies such as Government Minister Robert Halfon, Ofsted, Natspec, and The Association of Colleges.

Why is assistive technology and digital accessibility important in colleges?

The Access and Assistance for All campaign addresses critical issues in digital accessibility within Further Education (FE) Colleges.

Research conducted by The Thomas Pocklington Trust revealed that some college websites were not compliant with accessibility regulations. Also in the findings: 63% of colleges’ accessibility statements were considered poor.

By participating in this campaign, colleges take action towards accessibility, and ensure that all students have equal opportunities and access to succeed in their educational lives.

How can colleges get involved

By signing up to the campaign Access and Assistance for All, it will help you work towards your accessibility maturity and a more inclusive and accessible educational experience.

What is accessibility maturity?

The journey to comprehensive digital accessibility, is often discussed in terms of ‘maturity’. Institutions and organisations frequently go on a journey, from establishing the need through an initial audit of a new website or learning portal, for example, which then grows to developing a dedicated accessibility job role, training entire teams, champions networks, user testing and beyond.

AbilityNet can support institutions wishing to seek assistance on assessing their digital accessibility maturity. You can access this offer through the Higher and Further Education (HE/FE) Accessibility Maturity Model. This interactive resource helps organisations determine their position on the accessibility spectrum and identify areas for improvement.

Accessibility eLearning courses

Further resources:

• Higher and further education training
• Digital accessibility in Higher and Further Education - 
• Higher education sector digital accessibility gaps highlighted in global report

We live in a neurodiverse population, which consists of both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals. Types of cognitive differences and neurodivergent conditions include Autism, Dyslexia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyspraxia and Tourette Syndrome.

In support of Neurodiversity Celebration Week, we are sharing a range of resources that will educate and help you embrace neurodiversity at work, at home, or in the classroom.

How to support people with neurodiversity in the workplace

By exploring the lived experiences of neurodivergent individuals, understanding neurodiverse differences people experience, and recognising the impact of unintentional barriers, you can better understand how to support neurodivergent individuals in the workplace.

Gain valuable insights from AbilityNet's Accessibility and Usability Consultants Rina Wharton and Ashley Peacock, who shared their lived experiences of neurodiversity at TechShare Pro 2022. Watch the video recording below.

For additional insights on embracing neurodiversity in the workplace, tune in to an episode of the AbilityNet Podcast where Robin Christopherson talks to Matthew Bellringer. They explore the significance of neurodiversity within the workplace and share strategies for fostering an inclusive culture. Access the full conversation on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. You can also download a text transcript of the episode.

How tech can help people living with Autism 

Autism "affects how a person communicates with and relates to other people, and how they experience the world around them" (National Autistic Society, June 2020). Technology offers a great deal of support and independence to autistic people. You can find out more in our Autism and Computing Factsheet (also available as an Easy Read download).

Tech tools for Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a neurodivergent learning difference that can affect reading and writing. It affects approximately 10% of the UK population according to the British Dyslexia Association.

From a webinar with the British Dyslexia Association, AbilityNet's Rina Wharton shared her thoughts about different Dyslexia simulators and what might help if you have dyslexia. 

Addressing Autism, Dyslexia, and neurodivergence in education and work

Learn from a webinar we hosted with University of Northampton and the University of Bedfordshire, on how to make accessibility improvements for students and staff with neurodivergent conditions including Autism, Asperger's, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Tourette Syndrome and Synaesthesia.

AbilityNet's Teresa Loftus, discussed the Disabled Students' Allowances (DSAs) support available for neurodivergent students.She highlighted the issues some disabled people may face in the transition from education to work, including reasonable adjustments that may need to be provided, and how AbilityNet can help employers through its eLearning tools. 

Useful resources for neurodiversity 

• AbilityNet offers affordable high-quality online training courses to help you build skills in accessibility and inclusive design
• Our free online tool My Computer My Way is a great way to see how you can adapt a device to make it easier to use. 

Do you or someone you know live with a disability?

Join us for a FREE webinar packed with inspiring stories and practical tools on how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing lives for the better!

On Wednesday, 17 April 2024, from 1-2pm BST, we'll be joined by AbilityNet's Head of Digital Inclusion, Robin Christopherson MBE and special guests, including Microsoft and the Headway brain injury association.

In the How can AI help disabled people? webinar, we will:

• Uncover the secrets of AI: Learn how AI can make everyday tasks easier, from voice-controlled smart homes to cutting-edge prosthetics.
• Discover game-changing assistive technologies: Explore how AI is breaking down communication barriers and promoting independence.
• Be empowered by real-life stories: Hear first hand from disabled people about the power of AI to create a more accessible future for all.
• Gain insider knowledge: Get insights on the future of inclusive AI, with contributions from the Headway brain injury association about how AI is transforming the lives of people with brain injuries. More guests TBC.

This webinar is for you if you're disabled or work with someone who is disabled, or if you're simply curious about how AI can improve lives.

Catch up with the webinar recording

All those who register for the session will receive the recording after broadcast, so do sign up even if you can't make it on the day.

About Robin Christopherson MBE

A leading light in accessibility, Robin will share his personal experience with sight loss and how technology empowers him every day.

Robin's own experience of sight-loss gives him a first-hand experience of the power of digital tech to transform people's lives - and he loves nothing more than showing people how he uses computers, the internet, his phone, Amazon Alexa and many other technologies as part of his daily life.

Bring a friend, relative or client

Offering this free webinar is one of the ways in which we're trying to help bridge the digital divide, so to reach more people you could both sign up for yourself but also bring along a community group to learn together and share the advice.

If you work in an organisation with clients who could benefit from learning about the digital world, please do share this session and encourage them to sign up or show them how the Zoom webinar process works. It's also a great session for organisations who provide digital inclusion support to service users. 

AbilityNet is working with BT Group to support people 65+ with getting online and using technology, such as:

- learning how to use email
- make video calls
- use online banking and book medical appointments

Sign up for Free BT Digital Skills sessions for people over 65 in your area. (Available to people in and around London, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Cardiff.)

Further resources

Factsheets: Easy Read versions of free disability and technology factsheets now available

Blog: 12 scams to be aware of and how to avoid them

Workplace training: choose from a selection of online learning options for you and your team.

How AbilityNet can Help

• Call AbilityNet's helpline on 0300 180 0028
• Request help from an AbilityNet volunteer
• See our database of FREE factsheets
• Access FREE webinars about technology and disability

As we celebrate International Women's Day 2024 with the theme #InspireInclusion, AbilityNet stands firm in its commitment to a digital world that embraces diversity and accessibility for all. 

In this blog, we shine a spotlight on some of the inspiring women who have emerged as leaders in the realm of inclusion and accessibility. 

These remarkable individuals have not only spoken at our annual TechShare Pro conferences and participated in enlightening webinars, but have also collaborated with us as valued partners. 

To make it even easier for you to engage with these remarkable women, we've included their LinkedIn profiles. 

Today, and every day, we celebrate their contributions to a more accessible and inclusive digital world. Let the inspiration unfold! 

• Women who are leading from the top 
• Influential women empowering disabled people's voices
• Community-spirited women 
• Influencing accessibility standards 
• Driving change through community 

Women who are leading from the top

It takes strong leadership to drive a diversity and inclusion culture and ensure accessibility is at a company's heart. We celebrate women and the top, helping to drive the D&I agenda. 

Caroline Casey, co-founder of The Valuable 500 

Change starts at the top, believes Caroline Casey, the founder of The Valuable 500, an organisation she founded to put disability on the business leadership agenda of 500 national and multinational, private sector corporations. 

Dedicated to driving change through business for the 1.3 billion disabled people worldwide, Caroline has established multiple organisations and initiatives over the past two decades, all focused on promoting inclusion in the business landscape for disabled individuals. 

Caroline joined us at TechShare Pro 2021 to talk about the next steps to build a "murmuration" of support with other organisations and groups. Check out our blog on her talk.

Irene Mbari-Kirika, Executive Director of inABLE

Irene Mbari-Kirika is the founder and executive director of inABLE, a not-for-profit organisation working in Kenya to bring computer assistive technology to disabled students in Africa.

To date, inABLE has established eight assistive technology computer labs, hired and trained 20 assistive technology computer instructors, and enrolled over 12,000 blind and visually impaired students.

As well as a dynamic, global strategic leader and an executive-level innovator, Irene also shares her insights and experience at accessibility and inclusion events; she spoke at TechShare Pro 2023 on the Accessibility Leaders Panel, reflecting on what the future holds for accessibility.

Christina Mallon, Principal Director of Inclusive Design of Microsoft 

Christina Mallon is the Principal Director of Inclusive Design at Microsoft. Christina is dedicated to creating technology that empowers marginalised communities.

Christina serves as a board member for Inclusively and Open Style Lab, founded at MIT. Her focus at Microsoft involves integrating responsible AI and accessibility into products, showcasing her commitment to universal inclusivity within the tech industry.

Amy Low, Chief Operating Officer at AbilityNet

Amy Low is AbilityNet’s Chief Operating Officer. With more than 25 years of experience in leadership and transformation roles, she heads up AbilityNet’s expert accessibility services, workplace, education, and free services teams.

Passionate about leveraging technology to remove barriers, she ensures digital practices meet the needs of all. She works with a wide range of institutions and organisations providing services and support to ensure their digital practices are meeting the needs of the widest audience.    

Beyond her operational role, Amy actively participates in events related to accessibility and higher education. She shares insights on why inclusion is essential for the success of every workplace and advocates for the benefits of building more accessible work environments.

Amy was a speaker at TechShare Pro 2023, discussing the business case for accessibility.

Carolanne Minashi, Global Head of Inclusion at HSBC 

Carolanne Minashi is a renowned diversity and inclusion expert with a track record of making an impact. Carolanne joined HSBC in April 2021 and passionately drives real change through her work, covering a broad spectrum including disability, mental health, gender, LGBTQ+, race, and ethnicity.

She is a member of the Women’s Leadership Board at Harvard Kennedy School, and in 2019, she joined the European Advisory Board for Catalyst, an organisation focused on accelerating female progression in the workplace. 

Carolanne spoke at TechShare Pro 2023 on Empowering the C-Suite: Overcoming Fears and Embracing Disability Inclusion.

Kate Nash OBE, CEO and Creator of PurpleSpace

Kate Nash OBE, is the founding CEO of PurpleSpace, a leadership development network for disability employee resource groups (ERGs). 

Kate introduced 'Networkology,' a unique disability ERG change model that blends the art and science of creating high-performing disability ERGs. This leadership approach equips ERG leaders with the skills to address significant barriers to internal change, known as 'human resisters.' 

In 2023, Kate Nash authored the Confidence Conversation series of guides. These guides aim to assist employees with disabilities in building inner confidence, marking a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive workplace. 

Preety Kumar, CEO, Founder, and Board Member of Deque Systems 

Preety Kumar is the CEO, Founder, and Board Member of Deque Systems, a leading force in the tech industry. As a visionary leader, she also contributed to industry standards through collaboration with the W3C Web Accessibility Initiative. Preety is a nominated member of the Accessibility Forum's Strategic Management Council, where she works to foster information accessibility through cooperative efforts.

Read about our partnership with Deque to hep build a stronger accessibility community across the globe.

Influential women empowering disabled voices

We explore women making sure that digital accessibility stays top of the accessibility agenda.

Jenny Lay-Flurrie, Chief Accessibility Officer at Microsoft

Digital accessibility has “never been more important,"  according to Jenny Lay-Flurrie, Chief Accessibility Officer for Microsoft. She shared how and why Microsoft is putting digital accessibility first at TechShare Pro 2020. 

Jenny leads Microsoft's efforts on accessibility and disability inclusion. Driving a sustained ecosystem of accessibility across the tech giant’s products, services, and processes that empower customers and employees 

You can hear Jenny in conversation as part of our Accessibility Insights series.

Zoe Portlock, Accessibility Lead at Hargreaves Lansdown 

Zoe Portlock serves as the Accessibility Lead at Hargreaves Lansdown (HL). 

Drawing from her lived experience and professional background, she writes articles and provides consultations on Digital Accessibility. 

Zoe, a passionate advocate for individuals with accessibility needs, is determined to guarantee that everyone enjoys the equal digital experiences they deserve. She actively contributes to our round table events, emphasising the importance of inclusivity in digital spaces. 

Zoe will be joining our upcoming webinar on Building Your Accessibility Capability: In-house Skills vs. External Suppliers on 19 March at 1pm GMT. Register your place for the free webinar. 

Sumaira Latif, Company Accessibility Leader at Procter & Gamble 

“When we design inclusively, we're designing so that everyone is delighted with the same product,” says Sumaria Latif, Procter & Gamble’s Company Accessibility Leader. 

In her 22 years at Procter & Gamble (P&G), Sumaira has worked on some of the most impactful examples of accessible product designs. She is committed to creating a more inclusive world for everyone, both inside and outside of P&G.

Ashley Peacock, Senior Accessibility Consultant at AbilityNet 

Ashley Peacock is a Senior Accessibility Consultant at AbilityNet, driving inclusive user research processes and mentoring team members. Her expertise extends to project management, relationship building with partners, and contributing to business strategy alongside the head of sales.

Ashley has revamped training workshops and led efforts to audit and comply with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines standards, showcasing her commitment to digital inclusivity and contributing to AbilityNet's vision of making a digital world accessible to all. 

With a wealth of experience spanning nearly 15 years, Ashley has also been a passionate advocate, speaking on topics such as the lived experience of Neurodiversity. 

Elisabeth Ward, Lead Accessibility Specialist for Scope 

Lead Accessibility Specialist Elisabeth Ward of Scope works in programme development for accessibility, inclusion and workplace culture.  
Elisabeth also delivers talks, speaks on panels and shares her expertise in the media. She offered insights on digital design for a post-pandemic world at TSP 2020.

Community-spirited women

Technology is a great enabler. Here we celebrate women, ensuring that no-one is excluded through lack of access, social inequalities or lack of skills. 

Helen Milner OBE, Group CEO at Good Things Foundation

Under Helen Milner's leadership, The Good Things Foundation has published a blueprint for change designed to reduce some of the social inequalities that lead to a lack of access to technology, reinforcing social inequalities and leading to loneliness and social isolation. 

Helen is Chief Executive for GTF and has worked on the internet and communities for 30 years. In June 2015, she was appointed an OBE for digital inclusion services in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Sarah Brain, Free Services Manager AbilityNet

Sarah Brain looks after AbilityNet’s Free Services, including our 450+ volunteers who support older and disabled people to make the best use of their technology. 

She also looks after our free online services, including our popular factsheets and My Computer My Way tool guide. 

Sarah has been recognised for her inspiring leadership and works alongside our partners such as BT to help improve the digital skills of 4,000 older and digitally excluded people across the UK during 2023.

Elizabeth Anderson, CEO of the Digital Poverty Alliance 

Chief Executive of the Learning Foundation and its initiative and outward-facing brand, the Digital Poverty Alliance, Elizabeth Anderson, leads work to end digital poverty by 20 

Regularly speaking at industry events and talking to the media to raise awareness, as well as engaging with government and industry leaders around the key issues behind digital poverty.

Influencing accessibility standards

Policy is a key lever in terms of driving an accessibility agenda. Several influential women are involved in the policy arena. 

Malin Rygg, Head of Digital Authority, Norway

Malin Rygg has been in charge of the department of monitoring at the Norwegian Digitization Directorate since 2013. 

The directorate supervises Norwegian legislation that requires the public and private sectors to comply with international accessibility requirements. 

Malin is a lawyer and a prolific speaker, including policy's role versus the drive towards inclusive design benefits. 

Marlin recently joined us at TechShare Pro 2023, where she discussed How will the European Accessibility Act change the global accessibility landscape.

Susanna Laurin, Chief Research and Innovation Officer at Funka and IAAP (International Association of Accessibility Professionals) Representative to the European Union

Susanna Laurin is Chief Research and Innovation Officer of Funka and helps share future digital accessibility standards. 

She has been a thought leader in the field of digitalisation, inclusion, and e-government for more than 20 years, and she is a frequent international lecturer and debater. Susanna is the Chair of the ETSI/CEN/CENELEC Joint Working Group on eAccessibility, responsible for the development and update of EN301549 to reflect presumed conformance of the Web Accessibility Directive and the upcoming European Accessibility Act. 

As well as speaking at TechShare Pro 2023, Susanna contributed to our guide How to include accessibility in your procurement processes. 

Driving change through community

Women are taking a leading role in bringing like-minded people together to share tips on accessibility and to support others at each stage of their accessibility journey. 

Charlie Turrell, Engagement Manager at the Ministry of Justice UK 

Charlie Turrell is the Engagement and Champions Lead at the Ministry of Justice UK. In its pursuit of building capability, Charlie has played a pivotal role in establishing our Champions Network. Under her leadership, the Ministry of Justice UK implemented a comprehensive onboarding process, resulting in a thriving network encompassing individuals from various roles across the organisation. 

Charlie is also the co-founder of CAN (Champions of Accessibility Network) which brings together over 550 large digital organisations including Google, Microsoft and all major UK broadcasters and international on-demand service providers, with cultural inclusion programmes including an accessibility champions network.   

Don’t miss Charlie on our webinar on Building accessibility Capability on Tuesday 19 March at 1pm GMT. Register today.

Dr. Shani Dandha, Inclusion & Accessibility Strategist and Consultant, Presenter, and Actor 

"I don’t just want to see disabled people talking about disability. We need way more incidental representation of disability. And there are different programmers and broadcasters doing this in a different way. Sometimes, you are still made to feel like a bit of a tick box, and we need to move away from that." - Shani at TechShare Pro 2023 as part of the Media Respresentation of Disability panel.

Dr. Shani Dandha is dedicated to empowering women globally. As a thought leader, she guides organisations in creating inclusive spaces. She is a captivating presenter, using her platform to inspire change.  

Heather Hepburn, Accessibility Lead at Skyscanner 

Heather Hepburn's mission is, "Let's make travel accessible to all and give everyone the same chance to enrich their lives through the joys of travel." 

Heather is a passionate accessibility evangelist who is leading the charge as the driving force behind the accessibility program at Skyscanner. In her role, she is not just introducing accessibility initiatives; she is instilling a cultural shift that integrates accessibility into the very fabric of Skyscanner's identity and operations. 

As a co-founder of the Champions of Accessibility Network (CAN), Heather has helped cultivate an active community of over 1,300 accessibility professionals from businesses worldwide. Through CAN, she facilitates collaboration and knowledge-sharing, further amplifying the impact of accessibility initiatives on a global scale. 

Find out more about Heather and her work when she partnered with AbilityNet to use our Digital Accessibility Maturity Model.

Emma Lawton, Co-Founder, More Human 

Emma Lawton is co-founder of the start-up More Human, a platform designed to help build digital communities. 

She joined our panel at TechShare Pro 2021 that explored disability representation and the power of social media. 

Emma was diagnosed with Parkinson's at 29, which opened her eyes to technology's power as an enabler of human interaction. 

More Human's mission is to bring people together in virtual communities. 

Professional services from AbilityNet 

• Discover more about AbilityNet's accessibility products and services.
• Find out how we can help train you and your staff on accessibility
• Download our training catalogue and discover your exclusive discount code
• Disability Awareness Training for you and your team
• Download our Accessibility brochure to find out how we can help you on your accessibility journey