What is assistive technology?

What Is Assistive Technology?

Assistive technology is an umbrella term covering a wide range of devices, equipment, and software designed to support people with disabilities or impairments. These technologies help individuals with physical, cognitive, sensory, or communication needs to live more independently and participate more fully in everyday life.

For charities and non-profit organisations, assistive technology for charities plays a vital role in inclusion, accessibility, safeguarding, and service delivery.

Understanding how assistive technology is selected, deployed, and supported is important for anyone working with or caring for people with disabilities.

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Types and uses of assistive technology

Assistive technology can broadly be divided into low-tech and high-tech solutions.

Low-tech assistive technology

Low-tech solutions are typically simple, low-cost, and easy to use. Examples include:

• Relief cushions

• Walking aids such as crutches and frames

• Non-electronic visual aids

• Adapted utensils or grips

These tools often provide immediate, practical support with minimal training.

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High-tech assistive technology

High-tech solutions are more complex and may involve electronic or digital systems, such as:

• Powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters

• Communication aids and speech-generating devices

• Screen readers and magnification software

• Speech-to-text and text-to-speech tools

These technologies can be transformational but require proper setup, training, and ongoing support.

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Common uses in charity settings

Assistive technology may support:

• Mobility – helping people move safely and independently

• Communication – enabling individuals to express themselves and interact

• Daily living – supporting personal care, routines, and independence

• Education and learning – improving access to information and training

• Employment and volunteering – removing barriers to participation

For example, screen readers can support people with visual impairments, while speech-to-text software can assist individuals with communication difficulties.

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The role of assistive technology in daily life

Assistive technology plays a crucial role in promoting independence, dignity, and well-being.

When implemented appropriately, it can:

• Improve quality of life

• Increase confidence and autonomy

• Enable participation in work, education, and social activities

• Reduce reliance on others for everyday tasks

In employment and volunteering contexts, assistive technology can help people with disabilities perform roles effectively, access workplaces, and communicate with colleagues and service users.

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Governance, safeguarding, and safe use

While the benefits of assistive technology are clear, charities also have responsibilities around safe use, data protection, and safeguarding.

Charities should consider:

• Whether devices store or transmit personal or sensitive data

• How information is protected and accessed

• How equipment is maintained, updated, and securely decommissioned

• What training and support do users receive

• How risks are assessed and documented

The UK government provides guidance on the definition and safe use of assistive technology, which charities should consider as part of good governance and risk management:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/assistive-technology-definition-and-safe-use/assistive-technology-definition-and-safe-use

A structured approach helps ensure assistive technology supports users without introducing unintended risks.

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Assistive technology and digital inclusion

Assistive technology is a key component of wider digital inclusion efforts. Charities should ensure that:

• Core systems and platforms are accessible

• Assistive tools are compatible with the chosen software

• Devices are configured securely

• Staff and volunteers understand inclusive technology practices

Inclusive technology should be usable, reliable, and safe for everyone involved.

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Experience working with assistive technology

We have worked with charities and individuals to help deliver and support assistive technologies in real-world settings. This includes ensuring solutions are:

• Appropriate for users’ needs

• Secure and well-managed

• Supported with training and guidance

• Aligned with safeguarding and data protection responsibilities

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A proportionate, responsible approach

Good assistive technology for charities does not mean deploying the most advanced tools available. It means:

• Choosing appropriate solutions

• Understanding risks and responsibilities

• Supporting users properly

• Documenting decisions and controls

This balanced approach helps charities maximise positive impact while maintaining trust and accountability.

More information here:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/assistive-technology-definition-and-safe-use/assistive-technology-definition-and-safe-use