Embracing Assistive Technology: A Transformative Journey in Kirklees Children’s Services

Since the appointment of the Commissioning Officer on a 2-year secondment in May 2022, Assistive Technology (AT) has emerged as a pivotal intervention to address unmet needs at home and in the community for children and families.

“Assistive devices and technologies are those whose primary purpose is to maintain or improve an individual’s functioning and independence to facilitate participation and to enhance overall well-being. They can also help prevent impairments and secondary health conditions.”

AT, including epilepsy sensors, door sensors, GPS devices, and communication aids, has significantly impacted children’s lives by increasing their independence, reducing the need for care, minimizing hospital admissions, enhancing communication, improving safety, and alleviating carer and family anxiety. Remarkably, these technologies have led to savings exceeding £300,000.

AT’s potential is now being explored to support children and staff in schools, as well as council staff, broadening its scope and impact.

The service’s innovative approach has garnered national recognition, being highly commended in the ‘Innovation in Building Diversity and Inclusion’ category at the MJ Awards. Active participation in key industry events, such as the National Commissioners Conference, and memberships in TSA and BATA, have elevated the service’s profile. Consequently, other local authorities are now seeking to learn from Kirklees’ development and best practices.

Kirklees Council’s commitment to integrating AT in children’s services underscores a dedication to leveraging technology to support the well-being and development of children with additional needs, ensuring they have the tools to thrive both at home and in educational settings.

If anyone would like to discuss further, please contact Suleman Aswat, Kirklees Council, Commissioning Officer. Tel No: 01484 221000. Email: [email protected]k

Case Study: Peace of Mind with Epilepsy Sensors

The Situation

H, a 15-year-old living with his parents, suffers from epilepsy, experiencing tonic/clonic seizures. Despite having a camera installed, his condition was worsening, causing significant concern for his parents, especially at night.

The Solution

After detailed discussions with a product provider and the family, an epilepsy sensor was identified as a suitable solution, costing £238.40.

The Outcome

The family reported that they wished they had the sensor years ago. It provided them with peace of mind, as previously, H’s siblings had to wake up and alert the parents during seizures, disrupting their sleep and affecting their school performance and the parents’ work. The sensor has greatly benefited the entire family by improving sleep quality, which positively impacted education, caregiving, and work.

Financial Benefits

The AT solution potentially prevented the need for a respite placement, which could cost over £5000 per week. The improved sleep quality for family members has had a significant positive impact on their daily lives.

Case Study: Enhancing Communication with Alternative & Augmentative Communication (AAC) Devices

The Situation

B, an autistic and non-speaking child, has been using an AAC device, specifically an iPad with the TD Snap program, at school since December 2021. While this device has been effective in school, B did not have access to it at home, relying instead on paper-based AAC, which limited her ability to communicate effectively outside of school.

The Solution

To address this, funding was provided for an iPad and the TD Snap software for home use, costing £434. TD Snap offers flexible AAC solutions to help individuals with communication disabilities.

The Outcome

B’s father shared the positive impact of the device:

“Before, there was very little communication between myself and B. She got very frustrated and upset when trying to tell me something, leading to meltdowns. With TD Snap, there is much better communication between us, and fewer meltdowns because she can tell me what she wants. This device has had such a positive impact on our lives and can only improve in the future. She can even communicate with visitors, who are really impressed by the device. I would recommend anyone with a similar condition to try this device. Ps she can even answer me back when I tell her to do something.”

This intervention has significantly improved B’s ability to communicate at home, reducing frustration and enhancing her interactions with family and visitors.

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