BlueAssistUK

Many people with disabilities spend their time beyond the ebb and flow of their local community. Opportunities for employment, leisure, travel to or within unknown environments, all have the potential to present a wide range of challenges and difficulties. BlueAssist works to bridge the gap between the needs of people with disabilities and their communities by providing a system of communication. With the BlueAssist symbol and tools people with disabilities can express their needs and feel confident when engaging with the community around them. What is BlueAssist? The Symbol The symbol is there to help anyone understand that the person asking for help may not be able to communicate easily. Just as the wheelchair symbol is recognised for those with physical difficulties, the BlueAssist symbol is an inclusive symbol to show all hidden or communication disabilities. The Tools BlueAssist have developed a number of tools to support people to communicate their needs. The first of these is the BlueAssist card: The card contains three elements, firstly the symbol indicating the need for additional support and understanding. Secondly a large blank space, in which a person can write their message such as what time is the number 6 bus? or can I have a coffee please?. The third element is the small box in the right hand corner, this is for a picture, which enables people who may not be able to read to distinguish between BlueAssist cards reducing the need for support and promoting autonomy. The second tool is a Smartphone App: The app mirrors the elements of the cards, the message can be changed as often as needed via the Smartphone. In addition there is a call button; this button dials a pre-programmed phone number which can be changed an unlimited number of times during the day through the phone. These tools are free at the point of use and BlueAssist is committed to keeping the BlueAssist cards and BlueAssist Light App free of charge.