Sign in

TechAbility

@techability.bsky.social
171 followers 465 following 43 posts

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

PostsRepliesMedia
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 20/09/2026
At #TechAbility26 you'll hear about: 👉 #AssistiveTechnology and employment transition 👉 The intersection of #AAC and AT 👉 Why cultural change is as important as tech 👉 Smartglasses as AT 👉 AI for access and more... 19 November. Coventry. www.techability.org.uk/techability-...
techability.org.uk
TechAbility Conference 2026 - TechAbility
19 November 2026. Coventry Building Society Arena “Fantastic event — I left feeling inspired and motivated.” Delegates leave TechAbility conference knowing they are better equipped to support technolo...
011
Reposted by TechAbility
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
At #TechAbility26 you'll also be able to hear about: - Professionalising the role of the Assistive Technologist - AT and employment transition - AT to support formative assessments - Why cultural change is as important as technology Secure your place: www.techability.org.uk/techability-...
techability.org.uk
TechAbility Conference 2026 - TechAbility
19 November 2026. Coventry Building Society Arena “Fantastic event — I left feeling inspired and motivated.” Delegates leave TechAbility conference knowing they are better equipped to support technolo...
011
Reposted by TechAbility
Alexa Phillips @alexaphillips.bsky.social · 13/09/2026
Requests for special needs plans have soared by as much as 49 per cent in some areas as families race to secure support before reforms restrict access. Story for @theipaper.com inc insight from @oasisuk.bsky.social & @leoracruddas.bsky.social ⬇️ inews.co.uk/news/educati...
inews.co.uk
The eight areas where SEND children face even longer delays for help
Councils have seen requests for education, health and care plans rise by up to 50 per cent from parents 'anxious' over Labour’s major SEND reforms
011
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
At #TechAbility26 you'll also be able to hear about: - Professionalising the role of the Assistive Technologist - AT and employment transition - AT to support formative assessments - Why cultural change is as important as technology Secure your place: www.techability.org.uk/techability-...
techability.org.uk
TechAbility Conference 2026 - TechAbility
19 November 2026. Coventry Building Society Arena “Fantastic event — I left feeling inspired and motivated.” Delegates leave TechAbility conference knowing they are better equipped to support technolo...
011
Reposted by TechAbility
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 14/07/2026
Just some of the presentations at #TechAbility26 in November. -Smartglasses as #AssistiveTechnology -AT and AI for access -The impact of AT on user’s lives -Gesture control with a smartwatch -Building an AT lending library Booking open. Places filling fast! www.techability.org.uk/techability-...
techability.org.uk
TechAbility Conference 2026 - TechAbility
19 November 2026. Coventry Building Society Arena “Fantastic event — I left feeling inspired and motivated.” Our aim is that delegates leave TechAbility conference knowing they are better equipped to ...
022
Reposted by TechAbility
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 07/09/2026
Upgrade your #AssistiveTechnology knowledge by joining people working to improve access in education, care and health. 19 November. Coventry. Book now to secure your place www.techability.org.uk/techability-...
techability.org.uk
TechAbility Conference 2026 - TechAbility
19 November 2026. Coventry Building Society Arena “Fantastic event — I left feeling inspired and motivated.” Delegates leave TechAbility conference knowing they are better equipped to support technolo...
022
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 07/09/2026
Upgrade your #AssistiveTechnology knowledge by joining people working to improve access in education, care and health. 19 November. Coventry. Book now to secure your place www.techability.org.uk/techability-...
techability.org.uk
TechAbility Conference 2026 - TechAbility
19 November 2026. Coventry Building Society Arena “Fantastic event — I left feeling inspired and motivated.” Delegates leave TechAbility conference knowing they are better equipped to support technolo...
022
Reposted by TechAbility
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 22/06/2026
Keynote Speaker announcement for #TechAbility26 📢 Beth Moulam will share her lived experience of “Dreaming big, working hard and being resilient as an Assistive Technology user” providing valuable insights for AT users and supporters. Secure your place now www.techability.org.uk/techability-...
techability.org.uk
TechAbility Conference 2026 - TechAbility
19 November 2026. Coventry Building Society Arena “Fantastic event — I left feeling inspired and motivated.” Our aim is that delegates leave TechAbility conference knowing they are better equipped to ...
122
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 31/07/2026
Latest video in our series features Big Life Adventure, a safe social media space for people with learning disabilities and/or autism. Niki from Big Life Adventure talks about individuals who have benefitted, how the platform works and the story behind it. youtu.be/-3S3ywL_gD8 #AssistiveTechnology
youtu.be
Big Life Adventure
YouTube video by Natspec
011
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 14/07/2026
Just some of the presentations at #TechAbility26 in November. -Smartglasses as #AssistiveTechnology -AT and AI for access -The impact of AT on user’s lives -Gesture control with a smartwatch -Building an AT lending library Booking open. Places filling fast! www.techability.org.uk/techability-...
techability.org.uk
TechAbility Conference 2026 - TechAbility
19 November 2026. Coventry Building Society Arena “Fantastic event — I left feeling inspired and motivated.” Our aim is that delegates leave TechAbility conference knowing they are better equipped to ...
022
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 22/06/2026
Keynote Speaker announcement for #TechAbility26 📢 Beth Moulam will share her lived experience of “Dreaming big, working hard and being resilient as an Assistive Technology user” providing valuable insights for AT users and supporters. Secure your place now www.techability.org.uk/techability-...
techability.org.uk
TechAbility Conference 2026 - TechAbility
19 November 2026. Coventry Building Society Arena “Fantastic event — I left feeling inspired and motivated.” Our aim is that delegates leave TechAbility conference knowing they are better equipped to ...
122
Reposted by TechAbility
The Royal National College for the Blind @rnc.ac.uk · 02/06/2026
RNC is at Sight Village Leeds today. Come visit our stand at the Royal Armouries Museum to learn more about the College and what we offer. Nathan is here until 3pm. Drop by and say hello. #SightVillage #Visuallylmpaired #Education #Employment #Empowerment
Nathan is sat the RNC table which has got prospectuses, leaflets, merchandise and a tablet displaying a video.
021
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 02/06/2026
TechAbility's AT Lead, Fil is on his way to Portcullis House for the annual reception of the APPG on Assistive and Accessible Technology. Looking forward to discussions around #AssistiveTechnology developments and professionalisation, and hearing from AT users and advocates.
Portcullis House with the Elizabeth tower (big ben) and the London Eye.
021
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 14/05/2026
Showcase your #AssistiveTechnology or #EdTech in front of a highly engaged audience at TechAbility26. 19 November. Coventry Building Society Arena. All exhibitors get an elevator pitch at the start of the day, which is highly valued by delegates. Get in touch techability@natspec.org.uk
021
Reposted by TechAbility
Ian Hamilton @ianhamilton.bsky.social · 14/05/2026
Cool video from Tencent, showcasing Columbia University's Surveyor research on enabling serendipitous exploration for blind players - www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JrQ...
youtube.com
Accessible design is redefining how we see play
YouTube video by Tencent Global
032
Reposted by TechAbility
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 21/04/2026
Take 10 minutes to find out how to make Word a much more useful tool. youtu.be/Z85VfwRKKuc?... New video from TechAbility, Everyday Access in Microsoft Word, shows you how to structure documents and use tools which will help learners and staff get the best out of Microsoft Word.
youtu.be
Everyday access in Microsoft Word
YouTube video by Natspec
021
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 24/04/2026
2 more submissions just pinged in for #TechAbility26 You've got less than 12 hours to get yours to us...
000
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 23/04/2026
Deadline is close... Midnight, Friday 24 April Get your #ATech, #AssistiveTechnology or #AssistiveTech, presentations submitted for #TechAbility26 Submit your inspirational solutions or research to share with with eager delegates from education, care and health. bit.ly/ta26presente...
Person smiling and holding microphone. Blurred heads of audience in front of them
000
Reposted by TechAbility
HeX Productions @hex-productions.bsky.social · 23/04/2026
If you've ever wondered why an accessibility overlay isn't enough to fix all your accessibility issues on your website, have a read of this article where a developer tried to educate an overlay company from the inside: zurl.co/i3OTM #Developer #Accessibility #A11y
zurl.co
I tried to educate an Accessibility overlay company from the inside
Chris Yoong - Freelance Digital Accessibility Consultant, Accessibility Developer, Developer, Frontend Developer, Accessibility Engineer, Engineer, Frontend Engineer, UI Engineer, Web Engineer
021
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 21/04/2026
3 days to go... You can call it #ATech, you can call it #AssistiveTechnology or even #AssistiveTech, but we want your presentations showing practical solutions or interesting research. bit.ly/ta26presentercall Got an idea but not sure if it will fit? email techability@natspec.org.uk
bit.ly
Microsoft Forms
010
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 21/04/2026
Take 10 minutes to find out how to make Word a much more useful tool. youtu.be/Z85VfwRKKuc?... New video from TechAbility, Everyday Access in Microsoft Word, shows you how to structure documents and use tools which will help learners and staff get the best out of Microsoft Word.
youtu.be
Everyday access in Microsoft Word
YouTube video by Natspec
021
Reposted by TechAbility
davebanesaccess.bsky.social @davebanesaccess.bsky.social · 16/04/2026
Pictures show what something looks like. Symbols are designed to represent meaning. That difference matters in AAC, and language development. This new Global Symbols blog explains why both matter. Read more: globalsymbols.com/news/Picture... #AAC #Communication #AssistiveTechnology #A11Y
globalsymbols.com
Global Symbols News
001
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 14/04/2026
Less than 2 weeks to get your #AssistiveTechnology presentation in for #TechAbility26. Showcase your practice or highlight your impactful research to other #ATech professionals. Complete the form to be considered bit.ly/ta26presentercall Deadline for submission is Friday 24 April (midnight UK)
bit.ly
Microsoft Forms
021
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 23/03/2026
Less than 5 weeks now... Complete the presenter call form to be considered bit.ly/ta26presente... Deadline for submission is 24 April. #AssistiveTechnology #ATech #EdTech
bit.ly
021
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 23/03/2026
Full list of CPD opportunities during the 2026 summer term from Natspec and TechAbility. Attend these online, though most courses can be delivered face-to-face at your organisation, to groups of staff. mailchi.mp/de0647fc80c2... #HighNeeds #PMLD #ATech #AssistiveTechnology
mailchi.mp
Book now for summer term training
000
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 13/03/2026
6 weeks might seem a long time, but Easter break is in the middle of that. We don't want to miss your outstanding submission because you were busy eating eggs or picking daffodils...
022
Reposted by TechAbility
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 06/03/2026
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.
Three people in a semi circle facing each other. They are smiling.
1119
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 06/03/2026
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.
Three people in a semi circle facing each other. They are smiling.
1119
Reposted by TechAbility
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 25/02/2026
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...
techability.org.uk
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.
012
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 25/02/2026
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...
techability.org.uk
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.
012
Reposted by TechAbility
Matt Keer @captaink77.bsky.social · 23/02/2026
There’ll be lots of references to different pots of SEND funding today: some new, some not. Here’s a table showing recent announcements

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)
£200m
Unclear Equip hubs with SEND support /
outreach offer


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


High Needs Provisional Capital
Allocation
£3.74bn
2025-2030 SEND capital funding (infrastructure, buildings) to create around 60,000 "specialist places," plus "inclusion bases" for
all secondary schools
265
Reposted by TechAbility
HeX Productions @hex-productions.bsky.social · 13/02/2026
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 👇 #A11y #Accessibility #InclusiveDesign #DigitalAccessibility #Disabilities
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. 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 ‘click here’, compared to another which says ‘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.
102
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 19/01/2026
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 📞.
001
Reposted by TechAbility
CALL Scotland @callscotland.org.uk · 19/01/2026
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
022
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 06/01/2026
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...
000
Reposted by TechAbility
Natspec @natspec.bsky.social · 02/12/2025
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
022
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 19/11/2025
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
Charlie and Lee standing on the TechAbility stage. At Charlie's feet, there are a number of carrots with wires attached.
020
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 19/11/2025
#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!
Neil Harrod-Beck smiles on the TechAbility stage as he delivers his chair's speechNumerous delegates seated in a theatre style set up listening to the conference.
021
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 17/11/2025
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!
Room of people looking at a presenter. Text: Welcome to #TechAbility25
020
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 06/11/2025
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
techability.org.uk
TechAbility Conference 2025 - TechAbility
19 November 2025. Nottingham. 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,...
000
Reposted by TechAbility
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 04/11/2025
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-...
012
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 04/11/2025
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-...
012
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 31/10/2025
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-...
The practical use of 3D printing to enhance educational access. Dean Hall.
021
Reposted by TechAbility
Accessibility in the News @a11ynews.bsky.social · 28/10/2025
Japanese Gaming Industry Moves to Improve Accessibility www.nippon.com/en/news/yjj2... #a11y
nippon.com
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…
001
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 20/10/2025
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-...
Exploring hybrid help: GenAI blurring the lines between personal and technological aids | Richard Fletcher
001
Reposted by TechAbility
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 06/10/2025
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-...
AAC and Assistive Technology: more integrated support
Tina Voizey and Fil McIntyre
012
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 06/10/2025
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-...
AAC and Assistive Technology: more integrated support
Tina Voizey and Fil McIntyre
012
Reposted by TechAbility
TechAbility @techability.bsky.social · 09/07/2025
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-...
techability.org.uk
TechAbility Conference 2025 - TechAbility
19 November 2025  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...
034
Reposted by TechAbility
HeX Productions @hex-productions.bsky.social · 19/08/2025
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
zurl.co
Why digital accessibility should be a B2B priority too
021
Reposted by TechAbility
Fil @filmci.bsky.social · 25/07/2025
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
bit.ly
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...
011