Assistive Technology News Monthly: September 2026
This month's AT newsletter is packed with opportunities to learn and connect. Two free online workshops are coming up: Juliann from Enable Ireland explores the built-in accessibility features of Windows, iOS and Android (9 September, 7pm–8pm), and Jackie from Fighting Blindness demonstrates how smart home devices like Alexa, smart plugs and bulbs can support independent living (23 September, 7pm–8pm).
News
Join us for an interactive online workshop exploring how built-in accessibility features in Windows, iOS and Android can support independence in everyday life. Through live demonstrations, participants will learn about touchscreen customisation, hands-free access options, Smart Home technologies, and accessing funding.
Juliann from Enable Ireland will be giving the online workshop on the 9th of September online - 7pm - 8pm.
Please register here >> Accessibility features in Windows, iOS and Android – Fill in formMDI had their first assistive technology peer support workshop online in August and will be running a second on the 16th of September. If interested in attending, email tania@mdi.ie.
Join us for an online workshop exploring how smart home devices can support independence in everyday life. The workshop will look at different smart home devices like Alexa's, smart plugs, bulbs, curtain openers, etc.
Jackie from Fighting Blindness will be giving the online smart home workshop on the 23rd of September from 7pm - 8pm on Smart Home Technology. Please register here >> Smart Home Technologies – Fill in form
Product Spotlight
Through the Assistive Technology Support Programme, we are doing a product spotlight on products our MDI community uses. Thank you to members for their recommendations.
People with disabilities face a variety of challenges, be it at home, in education, employment, healthcare, social isolation, and independent living, we are looking to Spotlight Products and assistive technology that members use and find beneficial.
If you have a product you would like to recommend please fill in form >> Product Spotlight - Technology to Aid Daily Living – Fill in form
Resources
As we are in the back-to-education season we would like to share with you some useful websites around Assistive Technology for education:
National Council for Special Education– overview of Assistive Technology (AT). Computer-related applications.
AHEAD, a non-profit organisation working to create inclusive environments in education and employment for people with disabilities, lists.– some assistive technology commonly used in higher education in Ireland (grouped by disability).
AT Hive– the aim of ‘AT Hive’ is to guide through various technologies that can help people with disabilities in many different ways.
ABC School Supplies - The Company Teachers Trust – ABC School Supplies– special needs educational equipment
Enable Ireland– whether you’re an Assistive Technology user, a parent/family member, a personal assistant, a clinician, an educator, or just someone with an interest in AT, you’re likely to find training courses/workshops here to help you get the most out of what technology can offer.
All Play Learn–accessible online evidence-based tools and resources to assist and support children and young people with developmental challenges and disabilities and their families to successfully participate in mainstream activities.
12 Examples of Assistive Technology in the Classroom | Built In
Assistive technology grant for students with disabilities
When people require assistive technology to help them with their daily living, they often want to know what funding is available to assist with purchasing any equipment. Here we outline the main sources of grants and funding currently available with links to documents on www.citizensinformation.ie.