Communication Aids Project

A member of the West Cumbria Dyslexia Association applied for funding to help her child receive computer equipment and software to enable him to be more productive in area of literacy through the CAP Project.

Our member found out about the Communication Aids Project through the WCDA newsletter and felt it was worth trying for funding (nothing ventured nothing gained!).

The Project was set up to help children with communication/disabilities be more productive in communication with the aid of technology. Dyslexia is a recognised disability of course.

Our member filled in an online application (which is the only method acceptable to British Education Communication Technology Agency (BECTA) who administer applications). Although quite a lengthy process, the total time involved was nine months from initial online application to when equipment was delivered.

With the help of assessment reports and specialist teacher our member’s child has received a laptop and software specific for his needs to help within school and with homework. This will be a valuable asset to the child. The equipment is now the property of the child and does not have to be returned once their education is complete. Insuring the equipment is the responsibility of the parents/guardian.

The process involved three separate organisations i.e. Communication Aids Project, British Educational Communications and Technology Agency and Abilitynet, the agents who come and see your child within the school setting and assess their needs. The assessment involved child parent and specialist teacher.

Although your child does not have to be statemented within the education system the CAP project does not alleviate your Local Education Authority from its duty to provide help for children. CAP would therefore enquire from you at what stage of the Code of Practice your child falls within i.e. School Action, Action Plus and need to know what help school and the LEA are providing for children by way of assistance.

More information can be found on the CAP website http://cap.becta.org.uk

At the present time (Nov 2005) online applications have ceased as there are numerous applications to be processed.

The main BECTA website is at http://www.becta.org.uk

Our members’ child is delighted with the equipment provided which is now helping him at school and home.

Article submitted by Julie Clark, Nov 2005

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West Cumbria Dyslexia Association: Contact Doris Pearce 07863 329747

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