CASE STUDY 1
Overview - O gets very anxious, and this makes everyday tasks hard for him, especially things like getting ready in the morning. He needs his mum to remind him what to do and sometimes needs pictures to help him follow each step.
Solution - The worker supporting O agreed to try a Memrabel. This is a special clock that gives reminders to help people remember what to do.
Outcome - O’s mum sent an email saying:
Before, O found it hard to get started and needed me to tell him every step. This often made him upset. Now, he starts his day on his own and even brings me his medicine because he likes being responsible. I have three children with complex needs, and the device has also helped with splint therapy. O is calmer and more willing to take part. I was worried about getting him ready for transport to his special school, but the Memrabel has made mornings much easier for everyone.
CASE STUDY 2 - Overview
A’s family wanted her to join in more activities, but it was difficult because she needs a hoist to be lifted safely. They have a ceiling hoist at home, but most places don’t have one. A is too big to lift without equipment, so she couldn’t join in things like Streetbikes, go‑karting or sitting on the grass. The family and OT tried applying to charities for help, but they weren’t successful.
Solution - The worker and the moving and handling advisor found a suitable mobile hoist. Funding was agreed so the family could get it.
Outcome - A’s mum emailed to say A had an amazing time at Streetbikes. She was lifted onto a hand‑pedal bike and practised turning the pedals. This was only possible because of the mobile hoist. Over winter, she will switch between cycling and horse riding on Saturdays, and she’ll start swimming again in spring. She loved the session and couldn’t stop laughing. The volunteers were so happy to see her joining in. The hoist meant she could try many more bikes, making the whole session inclusive.
CASE STUDY 3
Overview - A high school tested an AV1 robot for six weeks. The robot helps students who feel too anxious to come to class or who have been off school for a long time. Many of these students were learning in a separate centre and hadn’t been in normal lessons for months or even years.
Implementation - AV1 robot let students join lessons from another room or from home. They could hear the teacher, listen to classmates and follow the lesson live. Teachers quickly found ways to make it work, like putting the robot on their desk and sharing worksheets online.
Outcome - Returning to Class: One student who hadn’t been in a normal lesson for almost two years was able to return during the trial. Staff said this wouldn’t have happened without the AV1.
- Confidence: Students realised they could keep up with work without feeling embarrassed, which helped reduce their anxiety.
- Positive Feedback: Staff and students really liked using the robot. Teachers said it helped make sure no one missed out.
One staff member said: “The kids loved it. The staff loved it. Used with the right learners in the right way, it can absolutely transform lives.”
