Access: technology

Access: technology is an independent assistive technology consultancy based in Yorkshire, UK, that specializes in providing specialist assistive technology for children and adults with brain injury and complex disability. They assess, recommend, set up, and support equipment to improve quality of life, working alongside families, therapists, teachers, and support teams. Their sole focus is assistive technology, and they are not tied to any specific manufacturer.

The process begins with an in-person assessment at home, school, or both, where the consultant visits with the family and support team to identify needs. After receiving a costed quote and the consultant's CV, the team buys and sets up the required hardware and software, then provides training to ensure the setup works day-to-day. Long-term support is available through an Annual Support Package to review and maintain the equipment as needs change.

They provide a range of services including communication aids, environmental controls for lights and appliances, computer access tools, and adapted gaming controls. A specific feature mentioned is their 'Digital wellbeing' service, which helps young people with brain injury use phones and the internet safely and with confidence. They also offer training for new support workers when the team changes.

The business is designed for case managers, deputies, and solicitors who need independent, costed recommendations that can be justified item by item. They also work directly with families, therapists, teachers, and support staff to ensure the technology integrates into daily life. Their work is built around the client's rehabilitation goals and the multi-disciplinary team (MDT).

The company is based in Ripon, North Yorkshire, at 18 Newby Stables, and works across the entire UK. They are registered in England under company number 10624121 as Access Technology North Ltd. Their current lead time for an initial assessment is 12 to 16 weeks.

Several reviewers on Trustburn praise the team's high professionalism, knowledge, and availability to resolve issues quickly. They also note that the website is easy to navigate and provides all necessary information. Some users mention that the services have greatly improved productivity and quality of life.

The Trustburn rating is 4.4 out of 5 stars from 12 reviews. The most recent reviews are from November 2023, and the feedback is consistently positive with no negative themes identified in the provided excerpts. The rating split shows a strong majority of 4 and 5-star ratings.

According to the company's own website, they have helped more than 500 people do more with technology since 2017. They describe themselves as an independent consultancy where assistive technology is their whole job, not an add-on. They emphasize that their consultants come from teaching, therapy, engineering, and rehabilitation backgrounds.

They state that they are not tied to any manufacturer, allowing them to recommend what the person will actually use. They also assess in person rather than remotely, and they train the support team until they understand the setup and believe in what it does. This ensures the benefit lasts after they step back.

The costed recommendations are sent before anything is booked, and the consultant's CV is included. They include set-up, training, and support time in the costs. For ongoing needs, they offer an Annual Support Package that covers repairs, replacements, and update reports.

A first-time customer should know that they will receive a quote and the consultant's CV before booking a visit. They should also expect an in-person assessment at home or school. It is recommended to prepare for a process that involves training the family and support team to ensure long-term success.

The business operates with a clear four-step process: assessment and report, set-up, training, and support. They also offer a specific 'Digital wellbeing' service for young people. The lead time for an assessment is 12 to 16 weeks, and they aim to respond to enquiries within 24 hours.

The official website of Access: technology is accesstechnology.co.uk.