Computers (P27)
Torbay Disability Information Service
Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust
St. Edmunds
Victoria Park Road
Torquay
TQ1 3QH
Tel: 0300 456 8373
Email: [email protected]
This is a controlled document. It should not be altered in any way without the
express permission of the author or their representative.
On receipt of a new version, please destroy all previous versions.
Document Information
Date of Issue:
Author:
Next Review
May 2017
Date:
5
Last Review
February 2014
Date:
Christine Evenden, Disability Information Service
Directorate:
Operations
Version:
31 March 2017
Important:
Please ensure that you are using the latest version of this information
sheet. To check this, go to our information sheets page on the Trust
website at www.torbayandsouthdevon.nhs.uk/disinfosheets or call the
Disability Information Service on 0300 456 8373.
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Contents
Subject
About this Sheet
What is this Sheet about?
Who will find this Sheet useful?
Obtaining a Personal Computer
What to think about
Low Cost or Free of Charge Schemes
Assessment and Advice
Charitable Funding
Training and Tuition
Access to PCs in the Community
Other Titles in this Series
Torbay Disability Information Service
Feedback Sheet
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About this information sheet
This is one of a series of regularly updated local information sheets that aim
to meet the most common information needs of people with disabilities and
carers in Torbay.
The information should be used as a guide only, as it may not cover all the
organisations that can help with your needs. Torbay Disability Information
Service (part of Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust) cannot
guarantee the accuracy of the information or the quality of service provided
by the organisations. No liability can be accepted for loss, damage, or injury
arising out of any contract made by a private individual with any of the
organisations listed.
Details change often, so please make sure you are using the current edition.
Latest copies of the sheets are published on the following website page:
www.torbayandsouthdevon.nhs.uk/disinfosheets
If you do not have Internet access, you can ask for single copies from our
office.
A full list of our other information sheet titles can be found at the end of this
sheet.
Information can be made available in other formats and
languages. Please let us know what your needs are.
Torbay Disability Information Service
St. Edmunds
Victoria Park Road
Torquay
TQ1 3QH
Telephone: 0300 456 8373
Email: [email protected]
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What is this sheet about?
This information sheet is about computers and services specifically for people
with disabilities, including organisations that supply computers. It is intended to
act as a basic guide to getting a basic home PC (personal computer), sources
of advice and local access to organisations offering time-limited PC access.
Who will find this sheet useful?
You will find this sheet useful if you are someone:
 With a disability
 Looking after an adult or child with a disability
 Working with people who have disabilities.
Obtaining a Personal Computer
A Personal Computer (PC) can meet a number of needs. As well as the
normal range of software, such as word processing, it offers other positive
opportunities. For example, it can help someone with a disability or special
needs access email, chatrooms, online shopping, Internet banking, and
specialist support websites. It can also enable someone to access online
educational courses.
PCs can also be used as communication aids for people who have difficulties
with handwriting, a visual impairment or speech difficulties. Specialist advice is
freely available and many adaptations such as Braille keyboards are
commercially available.
Laptop or notebook computers are portable and therefore can be more
versatile as communication aids than desktop computers for some people.
What to think about
 Where can I get a computer?
The sheet provides information on organisations that may be commercial
suppliers or charities. It is important to be realistic about what may be
available. For example, if you are trying to obtain a PC with a high-end
specification for commercial graphic design or video editing, you are
likely to be disappointed. Included in the sheet are charities that will
consider grants or fundraise for PCs.
 Are there any costs?
This depends on the provider, some are free, but you pay for delivery.
Some are subsidised by organisations and/or yourself. It is important to
speak to the organisations directly to establish full details and likely
waiting times.
 How do I acquire PC skills?
There are free or subsidised training providers and courses available in
Torbay.
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Low Cost or Free of Charge Schemes
Computers for the Disabled
41, New Waverley Road, Noak Bridge, Laindon, Essex
SS15 4BJ
Tel: (01268) 284834
Fax: (01268) 479028
Website: www.cftd.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
Charity that supplies recycled multimedia desktop and laptop computers to
disabled home users and agencies, organisations and charities that help
people with disabilities. PCs are supplied with software installed, Internet
ready, for immediate use without making profit. The customer is only asked to
cover any costs that have been spent by the charity in providing the PC.
Please note that all equipment relies on donations and is only available when
in stock.
As well as providing recycled computers, this charity also offers free PC advice
on best buys, where and what to buy and what to avoid.
Get Online @ Home
Tel: (03719) 100100
Website: www.getonlineathome.org
Microsoft has brought together a group of partners to create Get Online @
Home. This scheme provides affordable, accessible, ready to use refurbished
computers to help more people get on line for the first time. The desktop
computers are £99 for people claiming certain benefits and £149 for anyone
else in the UK, whilst the laptops are £149 for people on benefits or £179 for
anyone else in the UK. Qualifying benefits are Housing Benefit, Income
Support, JSA, Pension Credit, DLA/PIP, AA/Constant AA, Carer’ s Allowance,
IB, ESA and the disability element of Working Tax Credit.
The computers run Microsoft Windows 7 and include a range of software for
documents, emails, messaging, pictures, movies, etc. The package includes a
well-powered refurbished computer with peripherals (flat screen, keyboard,
mouse, etc.), a suite of free accessibility software, security software, 12-month
warranty and technical support. All the Microsoft software is pre-loaded,
activated and ready to use.
For further details about the scheme, or to purchase a computer, visit
www.getonlineathome.org or call (03719) 100100.
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Leonard Cheshire – Discover IT @ Home
Head Office, Leonard Cheshire Disability, 66 South Lambeth Road, London
SW8 1RL
Tel (for enquiries re. Discover IT @ Home): 020 7112 1489
Website: www.leonardcheshire.org Email: [email protected]
Leonard Cheshire’s Discover IT @ Home project (previously known as
Workability) offers disabled people an opportunity to access IT equipment and
specialist adaptations within their homes. Adaptations provided in 2013-14
included Dragon Naturally Speaking, dyslexia software, Penfriend, screen
readers and magnifiers, scanners that can read text and specialised mice and
keyboards. The project is open to disabled adults (18 and over) who are
resident in the UK. For more information or for an application form, please call
the team on 020 7112 1489 or email [email protected]
Leonard Cheshire has also set up the Discover IT Project, which provides
community computer rooms in several sites - currently the nearest centre is in
Plymouth, but more sites are being developed across the UK.
Recycle-IT
Unit 3, Wardley Industrial Estate, Holloway Drive, Worsley, Manchester M28
2LY
Tel: 0161 793 4744 or 07796 630533
Website: www.recycle-it.uk.com
Email: [email protected]
Supplies low-cost refurbished computers, including an informative pre-sales
service to ensure that the equipment purchased is the most suitable for the
customer, and an after-sales service. Customers include people with
disabilities, people who are unemployed, schoolchildren and students.
SpeakwithIT
Registered Office, Roselea, Hungate, Bishop Monkton, Harrogate HG3 3QL
Tel: 0113 370 0121
Website: www.speakwithit.org
Email: [email protected]
SpeakwithIT is a charity organised by friends and families of stroke survivors.
Its aim is to bring technology (in the form of specially produced software) to
those in need of help and for those who neither have, nor can afford, the
resources to restore their confidence and ability to communicate with others.
Initially available in Yorkshire and Humberside, the plan is to roll it out
nationally as resources and support are gained. Contact the charity for further
details.
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Specialist Assessment and Advice
AbilityNet
Charity
Helpline: 0800 269 545 (freephone) or (01926) 312847 Fax: (01926) 407425
Website: www.abilitynet.org.uk
Email: [email protected]
AbilityNet is a leading authority on accessibility and assistive technologies. It
offers a wide range of free services to people with a disability, helping them to
get the most from computers and the Internet, including the following:
 A free helpline for advice about computers and disability, that is available
to disabled people as well as their families, friends and carers.
 Assessment services, including a Workplace Disability Management
Service (telephone (01926) 465247) and a DSA Needs Assessment
Service for students with physical or learning disabilities in Higher and
Further Education across the UK (telephone (01962) 815012)
 Free online tools, including My Computer My Way and an online
assessment tool to help disabled people tailor their IT to meet their
needs.
 A network of IT Can Help volunteers who visit disabled people in their
home to help with their IT needs (for further information, see page 15).
AbilityNet also provide a large range of useful free fact sheets which can be
downloaded from their website or obtained by post:
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Autism and Computers
Communication Aids
Dyslexia and Computers
Dyslexia and Voice Recognition Software
Electronic Publications
Employment and Disability
Epilepsy and Computing
Ergonomics and Computing
Funding For an adapted Computer System
General Guidelines on Printed Material
Internet Hazards
Keyboard and Mouse Adaptations
Keyboard Shortcuts
Keyboard – Single Handed Use
Keyboarding and Touch Typing for Children
Learning Difficulties and Computers
Practical Implementation Issues around Recommending Technology in
Schools
 Rheumatoid Arthritis and Computing
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RSI and WRULD
Suppliers Information
Tablet Computers
Technical Help and Training Resources
Top 10 Accessible Apps
VAT and Computers
Video Games and Accessibility
Vision Impairment and Computing
Voice Recognition – an Overview
NB. Adaptive technology includes magnification software, programmable
keyboards and voice recognition software for ‘hands free’ computing; this is
just an example, not the full list of hardware/software available.
Abilitywise
Torbay Innovation Centre, Lymington Road, Torquay
Tel: (01803) 299132
Website: www.abilitywise.co.uk
TQ1 4BD
Email: [email protected]
Abilitywise provides services to those who would benefit from assistive or
adaptive technology by offering comprehensive and independent advice, and
by sourcing equipment, training and support. The organisation has a particular
expertise for those with a visual impairment or who are dyslexic. Please note
that there is a charge for assessments – contact Abilitywise for details. It is
advisable to make an appointment prior to visiting as much of Abilitywise’s
work is conducted off site.
ACE Centre
ACE Centre South: The Stables, Jericho Farm Barns, Cassington,
Oxfordshire OX29 4SZ
ACE Centre North: Hollinwood Business Centre, Albert Street, Hollinwood,
Oldham OL8 3QL
Freephone Advice Line: 0800 080 3115
Website: www.acecentre.org.uk
Email: [email protected]
Provides advice and much more about communication technology, including
computers. The Oxford and Manchester ACE Centres provide a focus for the
use of technology with the communication and educational needs of young
people with physical and communication difficulties. They offer a wide variety
of services, including a freephone advice line, in-depth individual assessments,
information sheets and publications, a loan bank of assistive technology and
AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) resources, available for
short term loan, and specialist training for parents and professionals.
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Action For Blind People – Action Team South West
Suite One, Chiltern House, Sigford Road, Exeter EX2 8NL
Tel: (01392) 458060
RNIB Helpline: 0303 123 9999 Email: [email protected]
Website: www.actionforblindpeople.org.uk
Email: [email protected]
Provides advice and support on products and software that can enable you to
stay in touch with friends and family, shop on the Internet, find information and
read printed material. The service also provides
 Assistance to employers and employees, to ensure the correct
equipment is available
 Equipment demonstrations
 Close liaison with the Access to Work scheme and support with
purchasing equipment
 Installation of equipment and software
 Needs evaluations of individuals.
Technology Drop-in Days in Torbay
If you or a family member or friend have a sight problem and are struggling to
use your technology (eg. laptop, tablet computer, iPad, e-Book reader, mobile
phone or smartphone) you can attend an Action for Blind People Technology
Drop-in Day for information and advice at:
 Torquay Library, Lymington Road, Torquay – first Monday of the month
from 4 November, 10.00 – 4.00 pm
To book a dedicated appointment, call the Exeter office on (01392) 458060.
Alternatively, drop in on the day and ask for Shenagh from Action for Blind
People. As well as advice about technical issues, Shenagh is able to give
information on the full range of services offered by Action for Blind People.
Aidis Trust
Service Centre: Floor 2, Richmond House, 15 Bloom Street, Manchester M1
3HZ
Administration Centre: 10 Ironmonger Lane, London EC2V 8EY
Freephone Helpline (for enquiries, advice and support): 0808 800 0009
Website: www.aidis.org
Email: via website.
Charity that provides assessments to identify the technology that best suits an
individual’s needs (please note that as this is only a small charity it is unable to
give the equipment that has been recommended for free). Also provides
individually tailored advice, training and support services, which include a
freephone technical support help line. Please note that assessments and
advice are generally provided via the freephone helpline or at Aidis Trust
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events that are located around the UK. Online training in assistive technology
is available from the charity free of charge, but training in general applications
isn’t included as this is more widely available – please see pages 12-16 for
details of training available locally.
For further information and advice, including assistive technology reviews,
please visit the Aidis Trust website.
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Charitable Funding
The following funders indicate that they may specifically fund computers.
Please also see our information sheet P12 – Finding Funding for Extra Needs.
The Snowdon Trust
Unit 18, Oakhurst Business Park
Southwater
W Sussex RH13 9RT
Tel: (01403) 732899
Website: www.snowdontrust.org
Email: [email protected]
The scheme provides help for students with physical or sensory disabilities
who are studying in the UK. Grants are made to students for disability related
costs of study, such as adapted or second computers for home use where
essential for keeping up with studies. Whilst the scheme was originally aimed
at people aged between 17 and 25 years, support is now also available to
mature students.
VICTA Children
46 Newport Road
Woolstone
Milton Keynes MK15 0AA
Support Line: (01908) 240831
Website: www.victa.org.uk
Email: [email protected]
Fax: (01908) 668868
VICTA Children supports blind and partially sighted children, young people
(under the age of 29) and their families across the UK. The charity provides
funding for visual aid equipment, including computers and computer software.
For an application form, visit the VICTA Children website or contact them on
their support line.
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Training and Tuition
Adult & Community Learning
ACL Brixham
Brixham College, Higher Ranscombe Road, Brixham
Tel: (01803) 853302
Website: www.southdevon.ac.uk
TQ5 9HF
Email: [email protected]
Brixham College has a computer suite and runs a range of computer training
courses, including Computer Basics and a range of courses for those aged
65+. Specialist equipment is available at the College to meet the needs of a
wide range of disabilities, including an ‘easy access’ bench for wheelchair
users, large keyboards, and a mouse that is specially shaped for arthritic
hands.
ACL Paignton
University Centre, South Devon College, Vantage Point, Long Road
Paignton TQ4 7EJ
Tel: (01803) 540770
Website: www.southdevon.ac.uk
Email: [email protected]
Services: Offers a wide range of computer courses, including Computer
Basics and a range of courses for those aged 65+, covering basic computing,
Internet and email, and more advanced computing.
ACL Torquay
Torquay Academy, Cricketfield Road, Torquay TQ2 7NU
Tel: (01803) 317118
Website: www.southdevon.ac.uk
Email: [email protected]
Services: Offers computer courses, including Computer Basics and a range of
courses for those aged 65+, covering basic computing, Internet and email.
Adult Learning, South Devon College
Vantage Point, Long Road, Paignton TQ4 7EJ
Helpzone Freephone: 08000 380123 or Tel: (01803) 540540
Website: www.southdevon.ac.uk
Email: [email protected]
Services: Offers a wide range of IT courses, from It User Skills and word
processing courses to courses in Excel, website software, Adobe
Dreamweaver and Adobe Photoshop.
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Crossroads Care
Tel: Mel Glew 07443 513575
Services: Offers computer tuition to carers and over 55’s, including free PC
taster sessions, one-to-one PC lessons and short training courses for groups.
Training includes tablet training, digital photography, mobile phones, email,
Internet shopping, Skype and social networks. Courses will be held at Brixham
Carers Centre, The Olive Carers Centre, Torquay and Age UK, Paignton. To
make an appointment for one-to-one PC training or to book a course, contact
Mel Glew.
Disability Support Torbay
Coalition of Disabled People South Devon
1 Lymington Road, Castle Circus, Torquay TQ1 4BW
Tel: (01803) 215871
Website: www.cdpsd.org.uk
Email: [email protected]
Registered UKonline Centre, offering affordable IT tuition to disabled people
and their carers in South Devon. A basic level of computer training is offered,
which is tailored to suit individual needs. Easily accessible premises.
Specialist equipment available, including a good range of adaptive technology
to support the visually impaired.
Offers free computer classes for the visually impaired, run by tutors with much
experience in teaching blind and partially sighted learners. Applications need
to be made through the Torbay Sensory Team on (01803) 219800.
Eat that Frog CIC @ The Pad
89 Torquay Road, Paignton TQ3 2SE
Tel: (01803) 551551
Website: www.eatthatfrog.org
Email: [email protected]
UK Online Centre offering a wide range of computer courses, from total
beginner courses through to ICT qualifications in all aspects of computer use,
including spreadsheets, word processing and presentations. Many of the
courses are free of charge but there are some where a small fee applies –
please contact @ The Pad or call in for further information.
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I Can Do That!
Tel: (01803) 201332
Website: www.icandothat.torbaybusiness.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
I Can Do That! is a community interest company that offers free basic computer
training from 9.30 am - 3.00 pm at Foxhole Community Centre, Paignton on
Mondays, the Acorn Centre, Torquay on Tuesdays and Hele’s Angels, Torquay on
Wednesdays. Contact I Can Do That! for more details about the training or to make
an appointment to attend.
IT Can Help
Part of AbilityNet (charity)
Freephone (and Minicom): 0800 269 545
Website: www.abilitynet.org.uk
Email: [email protected]
IT Can Help is a programme of AbilityNet (see page 8), offering free local
computer assistance to people with disabilities. A network of disclosure
checked volunteers visit disabled people in their own homes to provide training
on how to use a PC. Can give help with getting connected to the Internet, use
of email and getting started with standard software packages such as word
processing. The volunteers all have relevant IT skills and may be able to help
with computer systems, laptops, tablets and even some smartphones.
Laptop Learning
Tel: (01803) 506070
Website: www.laptoplearning.co.uk Email: [email protected]
Contact: Cathy Gillard
Times: Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 5.30pm; Saturday 9.00am – 12.30pm.
Evening lessons by arrangement.
Services: Offers one-to-one computer tuition for all levels, from absolute
beginners upwards, and personalised handouts are given to accompany the
training. Tuition is usually at the client’s home. It is preferable for clients to
use their own desktop, laptop PC or tablet for learning. Laptops can be
provided if needed, but there is no assistive technology available at present.
Tuition can be on any type of computer (laptop, desktop, Mac, etc.) and most
programs.
Costs: Costs start at £35 per hour, depending on location, but could be
reduced for group lessons.
Area Served: Home tuition available in all areas of Torbay, Newton Abbot and
some areas on the outskirts of Torbay.
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Learndirect
FREEPOST Learndirect
Tel: 0800 101 901 (voice/text)
Website: www.learndirect.com
Email: via website
Learndirect offers a range of courses, including courses in IT, available online
and at local Learning Centres (see below).
Learndirect Centre, Torbay
Castle Circus House, 136 Union Street, Torquay TQ2 5QG
Tel: (01803) 200650
Website: www.learndirect-centres.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
Contact: Julia Hollingworth, Torbay Centre Manager
Services: May be able to offer IT courses. Contact the Centre to find out
which courses are currently being offered and details of times and course fees,
if applicable.
RNIB Technology Support Squad
Tel: 0303 123 9999
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.rnib.org.uk
Has a team of volunteers located throughout the UK who can provide free
support with technology, including:
 Help with getting started with a new computer or laptop, installing a
printer and setting up your Internet and software
 Investigating, and fixing, problems with an existing computer
 Understanding the instructions for a new appliance
 Using your eBook reader or DAISY Talking Book player.
Advice and support can be given over the telephone or in person at home. If
you have a question about setting up or using your technology, please contact
the RNIB helpline.
Torbay Libraries - ‘Get Online Now!’ Sessions
Brixham Library: (01803) 853870
Torquay Library: (01803) 208300
Churston Library: (01803) 843757
Brixham, Churston and Torquay libraries are offering regular ‘Get Online Now!’
sessions, providing one-to-one help with computers from IT help volunteers.
Help can be given with setting up email, Internet and searching online, basic
word processing and Excel spreadsheets. Either make an appointment by
calling the relevant library or just drop in. For details, visit Libraries pages on
the Torbay Council website at www.torbay.gov.uk/libraries/libraryevents See
also Access to PCs in the Community, page 18.
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Torbay Stroke Survivors Computer Group
Paignton Library and Information Centre, Great Western Road, Paignton TQ4
5AG
Tel: (01803) 655045 or 07717 275848
Website: www.torbaystrokesurvivors.jimdo.com
Email: [email protected]
A group of Stroke Survivors that meets every Thursday 2.00 am – 4.00 pm at
Paignton Library to learn about computers. Some members of the group are
complete beginners whilst others once had the knowledge but their stroke
makes it a bit more difficult to remember. Members of the group help each
other to learn new skills.
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Access to PCs in the Community
Disability Support Torbay
Coalition of Disabled People South Devon
1 Lymington Road, Castle Circus, Torquay TQ1 4BW
Tel: (01803) 215871
Website: www.cdpsd.org.uk
Email: [email protected]
UK Online Centre with computer and Internet access, giving people the
opportunity to drop in to log on to the internet or send emails. Training also
available - see page 13. A small donation is requested.
Hele’s Angels
Hele’s Angels Shop, 67 Hele Road, Torquay TQ2 7PR
Tel: (01803) 312808 or (01803) 324323
Website: www.helesangels.org.uk
Email: [email protected]
Hele’s Angels is a neighbourhood management scheme covering Hele and
Lower Barton. It offers a ‘one stop shop’ for residents in the neighbourhood to
get help, advice and information. Free Internet access is available for public
use at the Hele’s Angels shop during its opening hours of 9.30 am - 5.30 pm,
Monday to Thursday and 9.30 am - 4.00 pm Friday (please note that social
networking sites are limited to one hour at a time). Donations are welcome.
Torbay Libraries
Brixham Library, Market Street, Brixham: (01803) 853870
Churston Library, Broadsands Road, Churston: (01803) 843757
Paignton Library, Great Western Road, Paignton: (01803) 208321
Torquay Library, Lymington Road, Torquay: (01803) 208300
Computers with internet access are available in each of the Torbay libraries –
please book in advance. NB. The first hour of computer use per day is free of
charge to library members. Non-members are charged at £2.00 per half hour.
Wi-Fi is available at Paignton Library – library members can visit the library
with their own laptops or other portable devices and link to the internet
wirelessly for up to an hour free of charge, whilst non-members and visitors
can gain Wi-Fi access for up to half an hour per day after getting logon details
from staff.
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Computer Accessories for people with Disabilities at Torbay Libraries
 The word recognition package, Jaws and speech synthesis package,
Magic are available in Brixham, Paignton and Torquay libraries.
 A Brierley Reader magnification tool is available in each of the Torbay
libraries.
 At Paignton library Learning Suite there is an adjustable table that can
be raised to the maximum height for wheelchair access.
 Software to increase font size is within the program standard on all
computers.
The following items are held in store at Torquay and can be requested in
advance for use in any of the Torbay libraries at any time:
 Keyboard guard that sits over the keys to prevent accidental key access.
 Little keyboard giving a shorter distance for operation between keys,
available with or without a keyboard cover.
 Keyboard intellikeys, a keyboard that operates from an upright position
and has a variety of layouts in the form of plastic inserts which can be
slotted in for various uses.
 Rollerball (replaces mouse) – there are several different versions
available.
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Other Titles in this Series
Most sheets have many pages, and details change often. If you would like
copies, please request no more than 5 titles at a time (further details on p. 3).
Disability Support Series
Adult Abuse: how to raise your Concerns
Bathing and Showering
Computers
Continence Management
Domiciliary Care Agencies
Emergency Care For Pets
Equipment Centres
Equipment Hire and Loan Services (including wheelchair hire)
Family and Emotional Support Services
Finding Funding for Extra Needs
Gentle Exercise
Holiday Services (national contacts)
Home Maintenance Services and Building Adaptations
Home Visiting Services
Housework, Domestic Help and Laundry Services
Housing Options for Older People
Information, Advice and Advocacy Services
Keeping Safe and Warm at Home
Leisure
Meal Delivery Services
Motoring
Parking and Public Conveniences
Shop Delivery Services
Sitting Services
Sport and Outdoor Activities
Stairlifts and Vertical Lifts
Support for Adults with High Functioning Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome
Support Groups
Telecare (includes community alarm systems)
Transport Services
P35
P02
P27
P24
P05
P06
P07
P08
P03
P12
P22
P09
P10
P23
P11
P25
P01
P13
P28
P14
P17
P15
P16
P18
P34
P19
P33
P21
P04
P20
Caring Series
Caring for an Adult with a Mental Health Condition
Caring for an Adult with an Alcohol or Drug Problem
Caring for Someone Coming out of Hospital
Caring for Someone with a Life Limiting Condition
Care Home Series
Care Homes - Day Care, Torbay
Care Homes: Dementia (residential and nursing), Torbay
Care Homes: Learning Disabilities, Torbay
Care Homes: Mental Health, Torbay
Care Homes: Nursing, Torbay
Care Homes: Paignton and Brixham
Care Homes: Torquay
19
P29
P31
P32
P30
C09
C06
C05
C08
C03
C01
C02
P27 - February 2014
Further Information and Advice
Torbay Disability Information Service
Torbay Disability Information Service has been providing comprehensive
information and advice to people in Torbay for over 21 years and we are a
founder member of the Torbay Advice Network (TAN). Our service is open to
any resident of Torbay affected by any type of disability. We also provide
information to anyone working or caring for people with disabilities.
No referral is necessary. Simply visit our office, call us on 0300 456 8373 or
email us at [email protected]
We offer:
 An enquiry desk service covering a wide range of topics related to disability
support and independent living.
 Advice and guidance on disability-related social security issues, including
benefit checks.
 Over 40 web-based information sheets covering the questions that we get
asked most frequently.
 Appointments for help with social security forms (PIP, ESA, etc.) for people
with diagnosed mental health conditions.
 An access point for the Mental Health User and Carer Involvement Worker
(appointments only).
Opening hours: Monday to Thursday, 9.00am to 4.30pm; Friday, 9.00am to
1.00pm only.
Signposts for Carers
Signposts for Carers is Torbay’s dedicated telephone support service providing
specialist information and advice to unpaid carers in Torbay. Contact Signposts
in confidence to find out about services, equipment, benefits and rights.
Support is available on a short or long-term basis.
Opening hours: Mondays to Thursdays, 9.00am - 4.30pm. Fridays: 9.00am 1.00pm.
Calls are diverted to a 24-hour staffed message taking service outside office
hours. Your details and enquiry will be relayed to us and we will respond to
your enquiry on the next working day.
 (01803) 666620
 [email protected]
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P27 – February 2014
Was this information sheet useful?
We are keen to ensure that this information sheet is relevant to your needs and
clear. We would be grateful if you would take a moment to answer the
questions below and send your response to us either by email at
[email protected] or by post.
Our address is:
Torbay Disability Information Service
St. Edmunds
Victoria Park Road
Torquay TQ1 3QH
Q: Where did you get this information sheet from?
Q: How old are you?
Q: Was the information easy to read and helpful? (Please tick one box only)
Very Easy
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Fairly easy
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Undecided
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Fairly difficult
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Very Difficult
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Q: How might we improve it?
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Q: What local disability related support do you struggle to find out about?
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
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Note: Please contact us on 0300 456 8373 or if you need help or have questions
about the contents of this information sheet.
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Ref: DIS, P27 - February 2014
This document can be available in other
languages and formats. For more information
telephone 0300 456 8373.