John’s Journey: Gaining Confidence and Independence Through Assistive Technology
How everyday devices like Alexa and an iPad opened new possibilities for connection, creativity, and control.
John, a service user at a Leonard Cheshire residence, has experienced a powerful shift in both daily life and social engagement. This shift has come through the introduction of assistive technology—and, just as importantly, through the support of a team who helped make sense of what that technology could offer in everyday life. While John had already been using several devices independently, including an older laptop, what changed through this work was not simply the technology itself, but the culture surrounding how technology was understood, shared, and supported within the home.
With guidance from the Assistive Technology (AT) team, John now has a newer-model Alexa device, a smart TV, a floor-mounted iPad stand, and a smart lamp. These tools were introduced as part of a wider effort to make assistive technology more visible and more naturally integrated into daily routines at the residence. As technology became easier to explore and more clearly connected to everyday activities, more residents began engaging with it too. For John, this shift helped level the playing field. Being interested in technology was no longer a solitary interest; instead, it became something to talk about, share, and enjoy together.
Before this support was in place, John often experienced frustration when trying to carry out everyday tasks such as watching television or keeping in touch with family. His older devices were difficult to use reliably and could leave him feeling disconnected. With newer, more accessible tools—and a team that understands how to personalise technology to individual needs—John’s daily experience has changed significantly. He now uses touch access to stream content, control his environment, and video call with family through his iPad. He also uses a Logitech joystick with his laptop and screensharing to a larger television in order to create and alter digital arduino boards (an open-source hardware development platform). He has even begun using these tools to experiment with Tinker CAD to design 3D models of new inventions! These tools have also enabled him to shop online, make art, and explore new technologies, re-energising long-held interests, including a renewed desire to experiment with eye-tracking to create digital artwork.
Importantly, John’s growing enthusiasm is rooted not just in the devices themselves, but in a collective shift in attitudes across the residence.
As staff and residents were supported to explore assistive technology together, it became part of a shared experience rather than something used in isolation. Seeing others engage with technology—some for the first time—has strengthened John’s sense of belonging. While he already had established relationships within the home, this shared interest has deepened collaboration and mutual support with both peers and staff.
One of the most meaningful changes has been in John’s confidence. He has always been a curious learner, but now he has more opportunities to explore, experiment, and troubleshoot using tools that work well for him. He also now has more people to share his discoveries and progress with as his peers and support workers have developed a clearer understanding of what he is capable of through his technologies. His hands-on learning style and willingness to problem-solve have not only supported his own progress, but have encouraged others to give technology a try. Staff regularly observe that when John demonstrates something new, other residents feel more confident trying it themselves. His enthusiasm is genuinely contagious.
This growing sense of shared curiosity has sparked new ideas for group learning and exploration. The Assistive Technology team hosted a gaming day, exploring accessible peripherals and software which will enable more people to interact with gaming. This event was partly inspired by John’s own excitement and willingness to experiment. He is particularly looking forward to revisiting eye-gaze art and hopes it will become a regular part of the home’s creative activities. The event will celebrate creativity, learning, and the enjoyment that can come from discovering what technology makes possible.
When asked to describe himself, John doesn’t hesitate: he is a “problem solver.” That identity is central to how he moves through the world—finding and testing his own solutions and now supporting others to do the same.
John’s story is a reminder that inclusive, accessible technology is not just about the tools themselves. It is about curiosity, confidence, and connection. With the right support in place, even modest interventions can open up new opportunities for creativity, autonomy, and shared learning. Through his generosity, resilience, and joyful approach to exploration, John has become more than a technology user—he has become a visible source of inspiration and a catalyst for positive change within his community.
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