New software makes IT accessible to the disabled

20:30 12th November 2008

The British Computing Society (BCS) has joined forces with AbilityNet to launch two software products that will help disabled people in their endeavour to gain valuable IT skills, whether they intend to kick-start a career in IT or utilise it for personal use.

Individuals who suffer from a range of impairments, including blindness and dyslexia, can make use of the AccessAT range of software solutions which includes NVDA and Virtual Magnifying glass.

All of the products are specially designed to make existing software packages more accessible to people with disabilities by enhancing functions already in place.

According to the BCS: "This collection offers a huge range of open source and freeware solutions to meet the needs of disabled people wanting to use a computer."

A Southampton-based computer manufacturer last month (October 21st 2008) was awarded a contract worth £250,000 to supply Greece's Ministry of Education with 2,000 large keyboards for those with sight problems and other disabilities.