Macclesfield based UKOnline Centre, the Disability Information Bureau is working in partnership with Abilitynet to put disabled people in the region in touch with technology.

The Disability Information Bureau already provides IT training to local visually impaired and physically disabled people. They have seen first hand how the right hardware and software adaptations can help disabled people and how computers can make previously impossible tasks, such as writing a letter, keeping a diary or shopping on line possible.

With funding from PC World's "Switched On Communities" programme, the Disability Information Bureau will be forming links with 20 learning venues in the region. Each linked centre will receive a "kit" of adaptive equipment as well as free support and training that will help them support their disabled computer users.

To be eligible for support under the project centres need to be voluntary and community sector organisations (or not for profit) and have a commitment to reaching and supporting local disabled people.

AbilityNet are working with the Disability Information Bureau and 3 other Community partners this year. They will be joining a network of 4 partners established last year. For details see www.abilitynet.org.uk/soc