Accessibility Statement
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Living room

There is a range of equipment available to help you feel comfortable in your living room. From making changes to your chairs and sofas to make them more suitable for your mobility to technology to help you stay safe and connected there are a lot of options available to you.

Equipment can be privately purchased from a wide range of retailers both online and on the high street.  If you feel that you need further information or advice please call Adult Social Care on 0113 2224401 to make a referral.  Someone will call you back to discuss the difficulties you are having and if necessary, arrange for an assessment when equipment may be provided to you, from Leeds Equipment Service, free of charge. 

Back to the house

Phones and other technology

Using a standard telephone can be difficult for anyone with a disability. There is a range of easy-to-use telephones with many handy features such as larger buttons, and image-based phone books.

You can buy these products online by searching accessible telephone in your browser.

Mobile phones

Mobile phones are another way for people to stay safe and connected. They often come with additional applications which can help us stay connected, such as social media, or engage with hobbies, like reading and audiobook apps or access to hobby websites. Mobile phones can be a good alternative to a traditional landline as they can be used at home and when out and about without having to learn a new system, and there are many accessible options available. 

You can buy these products online by searching accessible mobile phone in your browser.

Tablet devices

Tablets are also an accessible way for people to get online and connect with family and friends. Tablets come with features like cameras, microphones and speakers built in, so there is no need to buy extra items, and they have larger screen sizes than many mobile phones making them easier to read. They are portable and simpler to use and maintain than a computer, meaning that they are ideal for someone just starting to learn to use digital technology.  There are even devices specifically developed for older people and people with disabilities, so there are lots of options available to you.

You can buy these products online by searching accessible tablets in your browser.

AI assistants

AI assistants, also known as digital assistants and smart speakers, are a combination of loudspeaker and voice command technology which runs on Wi-Fi access. They use artificial intelligence to respond to spoken questions or commands based on a trigger phrase associated with the device’s brand. AI assistants can be used to take care of a lot of different daily tasks and activities. For example, you can turn your lights on and off without getting out of bed or set and provide reminders and make shopping lists to be used in online shopping. AI assistants often have a "personality" and can be a source of companionship and provide an alternative to the isolation of home. 

You can buy these products online by searching smart speakers in your browers.

Not sure you feel confident with digital technology? There are many services across Leeds that can help you to build your digital skills and confidence. These include neighbourhood networks, local libraries, and other community services. 

Find out about staying safe online on Leeds Directory

Access digital toolkits and support from Digital Inclusion Leeds

Things to consider

Changes to the UK's telephone network may affect your choices of device. Check how the change to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) might impact a product with the supplier. Find out more about the changes to UK landline telephones.