Toasting to the future for assistive technology

British Assistive Technology Association (BATA) toasted their future with champagne on the 27th September 2009. Paul Goddard, Keytools Accredited Assistive Technology Trainer and Business Development Manager, is one of the founding members of BATA.

Alongside CEO’s of key UK assistive technology(AT) companies, the discussion included the scope of assistive technology, aims of the association, branding identity, membership and service levels, subscriptions, legal form and elected six of its nine directors.

Aims of the new body:
1. To lobby for the rights and interests of those needing AT
2. To provide expert, impartial support and advice to government departments and agencies
3. To educate and inform widely on the benefits of AT
4. To promote British AT products and expertise at home and overseas
5. Provide services to its members

Why is this body important?
This is a great development for people with special educational needs (SEN). It became apparent in the early years of this millennium, that some children who faced the largest challenges (and also adults) had been overlooked by government initiatives, such as New Opportunities Fund IT Training, National College of School Leadership training, Curriculum Online software and provision platforms.

Since then, lobbying has worked to support people with special needs. This has resulted in the Bercow Report and the inclusion of AT in the current Home Access programme.

There was also a need for impartial advice from experts. Therefore – the creation of a trusted and professional organisation to lobby for people with special needs, was put into action.

We look forward to assisting Paul and BATA with their campaign to assist special educational needs people; and how Keytools team can contribute to support, information and promotion of the benefits of AT.