Assistive technology network

Dedicated to sharing good practice about assistive technology.

A woman smiling with a tablet in her hand.

Facilitated by Jisc and TechAbility

Open to FE and HE staff with an interest in assistive technology, at any level of experience - from beginner to expert

Regular meetings online

About the community

The assistive technology network is a supportive space for assistive technology practitioners to exchange ideas, research, and find solutions.

Supported by Jisc and TechAbility, the network is open to all working in further and higher education. It is a place to share experiences, ideas, and resources, helping members stay informed, connected, and confident in their practice.

In the community you can:

  • Exchange ideas, experiences, and knowledge in a constructive and supportive environment
  • Connect evidence-based practice with real-world application and build links with the wider assistive technology community
  • Keep up with professional development, support colleagues, and stay up to date with emerging technologies

Who can join

This community is run by the sector, for the sector. It is for anyone working in further or higher education with an interest in assistive technology at any level of experience.

People working in non-profit organisations that support further and higher education are also welcome to join.

While the network may invite commercial suppliers or developers to speak at events, membership is not open to those from the commercial sector.

How to get involved

We are currently seeking steering group representatives from Wales and Northern Ireland. If you work in a further or higher education provider on one of these nations, please contact us.

Sign up to the JiscMail list

On the list, you can ask questions and share ideas. Members are supportive, friendly, and keen to help. You will also receive notifications of free events for members, and opportunities for meet-ups.

The accessibility community Teams space also has a channel dedicated to assistive technology and other related topics.

Assistive technology network strategic leadership team

The network is led by the strategic leadership team with members from across the UK, who collaborate on events and opportunities for the community.

Current members

  • Beth Winkler, student experience manager, Edinburgh College
  • Fil McIntyre, manager and assistive technology lead, TechAbility
  • Laura Hutton, subject specialist, Jisc
  • Helen Nicholson-Benn, subject specialist, Jisc
  • Mike Walter, e-learning developer and assistive technology trainer, Hartpury University and College
  • Neil Harrod-Beck, assistive technology projects lead, TechAbility
  • Pete Scorey, assistive technologist, University of Chester
  • Piers Wilkinson, learning technologist, University of Southampton
  • Rohan Slaughter, senior lecturer MSc educational assistive technology, University of Dundee
  • Ros Walker, digital accessibility adviser, University of St Andrews

We are currently seeking steering group representatives from Wales and Northern Ireland. If you work in a further or higher education provider in one of these nations and are interested, please contact us at assistive-technology-request@jiscmail.ac.uk.