Supported One Stop (SOS) Project

Supported One Stop (SOS) Project

Our current emphasis is the SOS Project:
Are computers cold and hard objects that do nothing but frustrate us, or are we just not using them correctly.
Maybe you use yours to help you study, do your job, book holidays or chat to friends, but honestly, would you be able to do without it.
Imagine if your screen suddenly went black? right now! Now imagine that your computer is functioning normally and instead it all went black for you.
If you thought your computer meant a lot to you before, now it is your link to life, it's
- your eyes through telling you what is in front of you
- your ears through allowing you to see sound
- your legs by bringing the world to you
- and your mouth by speaking your mind
If it happens to you - you won't have to imagine!
AbilityNet provides expertise, advice, information and guidance to ensure that Information and Communications technology is accessible for everyone. AbilityNet SOS is a service that takes severely deprived disabled people in most dire need for help on an all inclusive journey that makes an incredibly profound difference to their quality of life and independence. A comprehensive and progressive assessment of IT need reveals the most suitable solution to the individual's specific limitations and life situation. The beneficiary immediately receives the hardware and software on loan for prolonged testing and ensuring no down time' while their permanent solution is being acquired. AbilityNet then provide them with the ideal permanent solution, train them in the use of the hardware and software and provide ongoing support.
Following a brain stem stroke Vincent has locked in syndrome. With a blink of the eye he lost all ability to communicate any thoughts, needs and feelings to anyone. With a brain still active but no way to convert thoughts into words or actions Vincent experienced ultimate isolation and frustration for 8 months before his family heard of AbilityNet. Dorothy, one of our assessors made a second assessment visit to Vincent's home. With brothers, sisters, wife, children and grandchildren, not having received any form of communication from Vincent in longer than anyone could stand, quietly and tentatively waiting in the background, Vincent tried to operate 'eyegaze', technology allowing you to operate the computer simply by moving your eye ball. Suddenly there was sound from the computer and Vincent's first 'hello' in nearly a year lead to an eruption of cheers, tears of joy, hugs and kisses including those of Dorothy. Vincent is now able to talk with his loved ones and perform tasks for himself, like turning the heat up or down, the telly and lights on or off most of all; Vincent feels he - has his life back.
AbilityNet, Adapting Technology, Changing Lives Forever