Adapted Computers for Disabled People

Pass IT On's core purpose is to adapt donated computers and give them at little or no cost to people with disabilities. The computers are fully refurbished and tested and are usually no more than 3 years old.

Eligibility Criteria:

clients can be of any age but must:

1. live in the EH (Edinburgh) postcode area
2. have a disability or health condition which makes it difficult for them to use publicly available computers (eg in their local library).

How it works:

1. clients register with Pass IT On (they can be registered by someone else or register themselves). We need their number and the contact details of a health professional (eg their GP, CPN, speech therapist) who knows them well. [contact us to register a client].
2. we ask the health professional to confirm that the client's disability makes it difficult for them to use publicly available IT.
3. clients are placed on a waiting list and we work with them on a first-come first-served basis unless they are terminally ill in which case they go to the top of the queue. NB we currently have a waiting list of over a year.
4. when clients are nearly at the top of the list, we send them a form asking what difficulties they might have using a computer and to tell us about any previous computer experience.
5. we visit the client in the place where they will use their computer to carry out an informal assessment - finding out what they want to use their computer for and what (if any) adaptations they will need. we will then send out an assessment report, detailing any costs involved. if a client can't afford to pay for any adaptations, they can apply to our Adaptation Fund for help.
6. we start building the client's computer system - buying any required adaptations, installing relevant software and testing it for electrical safety.
7. we install the computer system for the client, setting up their internet connection if required and giving them a brief introduction into how to use the computer.
8. we offer clients a follow-up visit to iron out any teething problems.

NB - once we have installed the computer, it belongs to the client - they can do what they like with it and are responsible for all on-going costs.

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scottish charity number: SC033560
last updated: January 2008