Children and young people aged 3 to 18 living with vision impairment are being encouraged to apply for a smart device to help them enjoy the same benefits of being online as everyone else.

The charity Guide Dogs Scotland has launched a new ‘tech for all’ programme to give young people devices with built-in accessibility features, such as screen magnification, voiceover and audio descriptions.

The adaptations make activities easier by allowing text to be read in larger fonts, magnifying photos and helping users keep in touch with friends. 

Guide Dogs Scotland’s Services Marketing Officer, Emma Brown, says the devices will be free of charge for children and young people with visual impairment:

“Technology is so important for children with sight loss to develop learning, creativity and independence.

“This offer can support children with learning at home, as well as just having fun.”

The iPads or iPhones, which can be chosen by older children, are also preloaded with online guides and tutorials that will help users get started quickly, and ensure that they know how to stay safe online.

The 'tech for all’ programme builds on a mix of other services for children and young adults offered by the charity.

The scheme called ‘buddy dogs’ lends calm adult dogs – which are not trained guide dogs – to families with young children with sight loss to help them build self-confidence, increase their activity and understand the responsibilities of caring for a pet.

The ‘my time to play’ programme, which is currently being delivered online, provides support for children under five with sight loss to help them learn through play and being part of a larger group.

For more information about the tech for all service and details of how to apply go to the Guide Dogs website.

Care and teaching professionals interested in discussing resources that might support children, young people – and adults – with sight loss are being invited to contact Emma: emma.brown@guidedogs.org.uk