My name is Paul Doyle. I have had the privilege of working in the field of Assistive Technology (AT) for 25 years.
My experience of AT ranges from installing and commissioning environmental control systems for the NHS to managing a multi-centre assessment service providing assessments for students eligible for the Disabled Students Allowance (DSA).
Throughout my career in the AT industry a common and recurring theme has been a lack of formal, accredited education and training for individuals working with AT and users of AT.
Experience has taught me that no matter how good an item of AT is. If it is not implemented and supported effectively by competent and confident teachers’ carers parents etc. the user will not gain the full benefit and of often will abandon their technology.
I have a passion for ensuring that an individual has access to products and services that genuinely enable independence and have been involved in several projects developing leaning programmes for individuals supporting users of AT.
I have been fortunate enough to be involved with industry and Government groups who are charged with representing and promoting AT at a national policy level.
I have also had opportunities to participate in numerous research and development projects with innovative organisations and individuals, this has helped me keep abreast of developments in an ever-changing field and establish interesting and rewarding relationships both in and outside the AT domain.
I very much welcome an opportunity to offer my knowledge, skills and just as importantly my enthusiasm to the Karten Network.
I hope to work with the Karten Network to expand on their offer to the community. For example, I have been collaborating with the Smart Home Industry for a many years and during that period I have learned of many benefits smart technologies can deliver to older and disabled people.
I see the Karten Centres as an ideal venue for an awareness raising programme, demonstrating smart products and highlighting their features and benefits to users in a supportive and ethical environment.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of a national organisation that at its core improves the lot of individuals and look forward to learning how best I can contribute to its future success.
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- Featured in the Karten Autumn 2019 Newsletter
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