Disability Information UKPlain-language information, rights and support

Assistive technology and accessible devices

Built-in accessibility features on phones and computers, specialist assistive technology, and where to get free advice and support to set them up.

Sample content. This prototype article summarises official UK sources listed at the end of the page. It is information, not legal or medical advice, and what you are entitled to depends on your circumstances.

Jurisdiction
UK-wide
Date last checked
12 January 2026
Date last updated
12 January 2026
Next review due
12 July 2026
Article version
1.0
Review status
Review status: Published and checked

Overview

Most modern phones, tablets and computers include built-in accessibility features at no extra cost, such as screen readers, screen magnification, voice control, captions, colour and contrast adjustments, and switch control for people who cannot use a touchscreen or mouse.

Specialist assistive technology goes further, including eye-gaze communication devices, dedicated switches, alternative keyboards and mice, and communication aids for people who are non-speaking or have limited speech.

AbilityNet is a UK charity offering free advice, home visits and 'My Computer My Way', a website explaining how to change accessibility settings on common devices.

NHS speech and language therapy services can assess and, in some cases, provide communication aids (Augmentative and Alternative Communication, or AAC) for people who need support with speaking.

Common barriers people describe

  • Many people are unaware that free accessibility features already exist on their devices.
  • Getting funding for specialist equipment such as eye-gaze devices can involve long assessment waits and complex funding routes, particularly outside the NHS or education system.
  • Assistive technology is not always considered early enough in education, work or healthcare settings.
  • Older or cheaper devices sometimes have more limited accessibility features than the latest models.

Practical support

  • Check your device's accessibility settings (usually under 'Accessibility' or 'Ease of Access' in settings menus) before buying separate equipment.
  • Contact AbilityNet for free, impartial advice, including home visits from volunteers in some areas, to help set up accessibility features.
  • Ask your GP or local NHS service for a referral to speech and language therapy if you or someone you support could benefit from an AAC assessment.
  • Local authority sensory or assistive technology teams, and charities specific to a condition (for example, RNIB, RNID, Scope or the MND Association), can advise on specialist equipment relevant to your needs.

Your rights

  • Under the Equality Act 2010, employers, education providers and service providers may need to make reasonable adjustments, which can include providing or allowing assistive technology.
  • Access to Work (Great Britain) can fund specialist software, equipment and support workers needed because of your disability to do your job.
  • In education, an Education, Health and Care Plan (England), or equivalent support plan elsewhere in the UK, can specify assistive technology needed to support a child's learning.

Possible benefits and financial support

These are things you may want to check. Nothing here is a decision, and entitlement always depends on your circumstances.

    Workplace adjustments to consider

    • Access to Work can pay for assistive technology, adapted equipment, or a support worker, and can also fund a workplace assessment to identify what would help.

    Education adjustments to consider

    • Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA) in higher education can fund specialist equipment and software, plus training on how to use it.

    Getting healthcare that works for you

    • NHS wheelchair and communication aid services sometimes combine seating and AAC assessments for people with complex physical and communication needs.

    Related rights topics

    Sources

    Every fact on this page comes from the sources below. Follow the links for the full, official version.

    Update history

    • Version 1.0 — 12 January 2026

      First published sample article on assistive technology and accessible devices.

      Approved by: Editorial reviewer (sample)

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