Specialised equipment is often critical in assisting people with disabilities to achieve independence in their own home, at school, at work and in the community.

The Technology Unit aims to assist people with cerebral palsy and related disabilities to increase independence and enhance quality of life by helping to facilitate the selection of appropriate technology to meet their needs.

The Technology Unit is staffed by a physiotherapist, an occupational therapist and a speech pathologist, all of whom combine their expertise in technology with therapy skills. They work in a collaborative way with the client, their families, professionals and others involved in their care, and provide information to all community members.

The key areas addressed by theTechnology Unit are:

• seating and mobility
• means of accessing technological equipment, for example special needs software, switches, environmental control
• augmentative and alternative communication

The Technology Unit offers a range of services including:

Information

The Technology Unit provides information regarding technological innovations in seating and mobility, accessing computers (hardware and software) and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies. This service is available to anyone requiring information, depending on available resources.

Education

Technology Unit therapists are involved in the professional development and training of all League staff. Presentations to outside organisations may be negotiated.

Equipment

A range of technological equipment is available in the Technology Unit for trialing by therapists and clients, to assess the effectiveness of such equipment in meeting the client’s needs.

Consultation

Technology Unit therapists are available for consultations regarding seating and mobility, accessing computers, and augmentative communication devices. This consultation is with clients and their primary therapy team. People who are actively involved in a League program may access the consultancy service as part of their League program with their primary therapist/s.

Other people may also access the professional consultancy for a fee. In these cases, the client’s primary therapist/s should contact the Technology Unit for a Client Profile Form. Appointments may be made once the Technology Unit receives all information.

All of the services provided by the Technology Unit have the common goal of promoting the achievements and the inclusion of people with disabilities in their community.