Delivering an AT service: a client-focused, social and participatory service delivery model in assistive technology in Ireland.

Abstract

This article outlines the development of an Assistive Technology (AT) service delivery model and suggests that a client-focused social and participatory service delivery model in AT can achieve the best results for people with disabilities and their carers. It draws on case studies, which are part of the final evaluation report of the Aphrodite (European Horizon funded project 1998-2000) project to illustrate the success of a client-focused service. The aim of the project was to provide people with disabilities access to a local technical resource in the form of Technology Liaison Officers (TLOs). TLO's are people with physical disabilities, who have been trained in AT and who have achieved a certificate in AT, to act as a liaison between users and potential users of AT and the Central Remedial Clinic's (CRC) Client Technical Services (CTS) Department.