British Assistive Technology Association

With our Annual General Meeting taking place tomorrow, we thought it would be a good idea to remind you of the diverse range of assistive technology organisations that comprise BATA. We're very fortunate to have so many different levels of organisations - from educational institutions, to innovative start-ups, to experienced tech companies, and non-profits- all collaborating with the same mission: to advance progress and access to assistive technology, for everyone.

We'll be sharing insights and pictures of our biggest networking event of the year, so stay tuned!

It's British Science Week, with the theme of 'change and adapt'. But this doesn't just apply to science, nature, and the world around us. It's also a poignant message that schools, workplaces, and society must be willing to adapt learning methods and innovate in new ways so that disabled children and adults have the same opportunities to contribute to science. We love this blog on STEM and neurodiversity by the British Science Association: https://lnkd.in/e8iC9Vv3

The UK government has stopped funding spelling and grammar software for disabled students. This decision undermines accessibility and places students with dyslexia and other learning differences at a clear disadvantage.

At BATA, we strongly oppose this move, which directly opposes our mission and everything we do. The right assistive technology—developed and tested by experts who dedicate their time to focusing on the specific needs of users—can be life-changing. It empowers students to learn, express themselves, and achieve their full potential. Removing access to these vital tools widens the attainment gap and creates unnecessary barriers to education.

🔗 Read the full conversation by clicking on the link we have shared below.

We'd love to know your thoughts on the current situation. Please feel free to comment below.

DfE stops funding spelling and grammar software for disabled students A couple of weeks ago now, the Department for Education (DfE) quietly announced a decision to remove non-specialist spelling and grammar software from Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) funding.

At BATA, we believe real change happens when voices unite—from educators and AT users, to innovators and policymakers. That’s why our Special Interest Groups (SIGs) bring together experts and advocates to tackle key challenges and share successes of assistive technology.

Tomorrow, our Education SIG, guest hosted by Bob Sagoo, dives into gamification in special education, exploring how game-based learning can boost engagement, accessibility, and outcomes for students with special educational needs.

If you'd like to know more about this event, head to this link: https://lnkd.in/eUqjpnP3

If you're going to BETT, we'd love to connect with you! We're an association partner of the new SEND Village and we'll be chatting about the triumphs and challenges of assistive technology within education. Visit us at Stand SE74.

We've got a packed schedule this month, with lots of important conversations happening in our SIG webinars! These are always free to BATA members, but if you're not a member and would like to know more about how to get involved, we'd love to talk to you!

Email our Events administrator Claudia: [email protected].

BATA is delighted to partner with some wonderful events this year, to help amplify voices for assistive technology. First up is BETT, where we're an association partner of the inaugural SEND Village. Then in February, we're excited to return to the TES Show where we're championing the AT Zone, before progressing our work within the AAC sector with a stand at Communication Works in May.

If you're a BATA member and would like to know more about exhibiting and collaborating with us, contact Comms Co-ordinator Jade by emailing [email protected].

BATA's Special Interest Groups are at the heart of our mission, driving forward progress for assistive technology through the many voices within the industry that come together during our webinars to discuss challenges, share knowledge, and empower. Here's a snapshot of some of our most recent conversations for change.

If you'd like to know more about the SIGs, visit the webpage: https://www.bataonline.org/sigs or keep up to date with upcoming webinars via our LinkedIn Events page: https://www.bataonline.org/events-2-1