The project works by loaning out Synapptic mobile devices to those with low vision or a sight loss diagnosis. Halifax Society’s specially trained volunteers then offer their client remote support for three months, with an option to buy the device at the end of the loan period, using a 33% subsidy from Halifax Society.
The innovative AVIATORS project was picked up by the BBC, who visited the society to find out more and interviewed the CEO Pete Hoey, along with one of their members, Margaret. Margaret was delighted with her new Synapptic tablet, saying, ‘It will open up new worlds. I’m just at the beginning of it now.’ One of her aims is to learn how to use Zoom, through her Synapptic tablet, by Christmas. That way, she hopes to join in with some of the online Christmas activities offered by Halifax Society over the festive period.
Now, more than ever, people with sight loss are trying to get to grips with technology, in order to help them stay connected to friends and family, remain independent and access entertainment services in their homes. At Synapptic, we’re delighted that Halifax Society chose to use Synapptic mobile devices, as part of their Aviators project. We wish them all the best of luck and hope that many more clients, like Margaret, will benefit from staying connected through Synapptic, during Christmas and beyond.
We have audio-described the video to make it fully accessible. The original BBC clip is availabe here. The video is copyright BBC 2020.
