You may also benefit from adjustments to your way of working, such as flexible working or a change of location. Find out more about reasonable adjustments on the Occupational Health website.
Assistive technology and equipment
Assistive Technology describes tools that support and help individuals with disabilities, restricted mobility or other impairments.
Free assistive technology for staff
Did you know, you can:
- Increase text legibility and visibility with font adjustments
- Use a screen reader for audio descriptions of everything on your screen
- Increase the colour contrast of text and images to make things easier to identify
- Flag your need for accessible content when other people email you
» Find out how on the Digital Hub Assistive Technology page.
You can download the software below to your university computer for free, from the software centre (Windows PCs) or the Home Software Hub (Apple PCs).
Mind-mapping software
Literacy and read-aloud software
Referencing software
Microsoft Office 365 (including Teams)
You can also get Microsoft Office for your personal (not University-owned) computer for free.
Colour overlays
There are free software packages that you can use to change the colour of your screen. Some find this really helpful for increasing their processing speed when reading, and different colours work best for different people.
Reading tools
- Natural Reader Online - reads text aloud
- Rewordify - defines words to help you understand what you're reading
Writing tools
- Grammarly - online proofreading tool for your writing. There is a Chrome extension available.
Dictation tools
- Otter - records and transcribes audio. There are free and paid versions.
Notetaking tools
- Google Keep app - make written or audio notes or save webpages, on your phone or computer
» Find out more and watch videos about these tools in this Sway
SensusAccess is free for all staff and students to use.
It can convert documents and PDFs into a range of alternative formats including:
- Digital Braille
- MP3
- DAISY
- e-books.
Paid assistive technology and equipment
There is a cost attached to the technology and equipment listed below, but this may be paid by your department or the Access to Work programme.
The software below is available to university staff or teams who purchase a license.
To access this software:
- ????
- Log an IT enquiry
Voice recognition and dictation software
PDF creating and editing software
Project management software
Visualisation software
Depending on your situation, you may need specialist equipment or adaptations such as:
- Specialist visual aids
- Desk equipment
- Specialist chairs
- An assistant at work
- Adaptations to buildings such as pushbutton doors or ramps
How to access this support
If you think you would benefit from any of the above:
- Complete a Workstation self-assessment form
- The result will be emailed to you and your manager, with guidance on any action required. You may need an Access to Work assessment to decide what support is best for you.
- If you are still experiencing difficulties setting up your workstation, email the Health and Safety team to arrange a Teams call.
If you'd like to discuss what adjustments might work for you, contact the Staff Disability Adviser.
IT support that works for you
The IT Service Desk can help you download software, set up equipment, or learn to use software and digital tools.
You can request an in-person visit to your office, or support over the phone instead of email.
How to get support:
- Log in to the IT service desk
- Select 'I need something'
You can also book time with an expert, join a software training session or ask the Digital Hub a question on Yammer.