RAPL (Remote Assessment Project London)

The RAPL project aimed to tackle discrimination by training staff from organisations in the local community and providing them with practical support, so that they could provide facilities, and support if necessary, for users to carry out assessments using the online tool.
AbilityNet has developed an online self-assessment tool which takes users through a series of questions designed to work out exactly which adjustments, hardware adaptations or software would help that individual. Many people – both potential computer users and those who provide community computing facilities – are insufficiently aware of what can be done to make computers more accessible.
Users and the staff supporting them could also get support from AbilityNet by telephone and receive supported assessment over the internet, via direct access to the user’s computer.
The project aimed to help not only people who specifically asked for help but also those not obviously struggling or asking for help but who could benefit. Of all those with disabilities, only a very small proportion would identify themselves as disabled (or necessarily be identified as such by a centre providing computing facilities or training).

Context: There are estimated to be 1 million people in London (one in twelve of the population) who would qualify as disabled under the Disability Discrimination Act. Many of these people are unable to use standard computers easily, effectively or, in some cases, at all. There are, however, a number of simple adjustments, as well as a wide range of specially designed hardware and software, which can enable them to carry out tasks that many people take for granted.

Stakeholders involved: They deliberately covered a range of types of centre, including:
• libraries
• disability charities
• adult education institutions,
• community centres.

Key learning points: NEI.

Evaluation: Yes

Information sources: Information on the recruitment and workplace solutions can be found at www.cleartalents.info.
The higher-education solution can be found at www.mystudymyway.com.

Read the full analysis: https://preview.tinyurl.com/y466xfpy