TIME FOR CHANGE - assistive technology for a better quality of life

<< Background >>We applied for this project to address the urgent need to improve the quality of life, autonomy, and social inclusion of people with intellectual, physical, sensory, and mental disabilities, who are often at risk of social marginalization. Across our organisations and communities, we observed a critical lack of awareness, knowledge, and access to assistive technologies, which could greatly enhance independence and participation in daily life. There was also a skills gap among social workers, carers, and families regarding the effective introduction and use of such technologies. Furthermore, stigma and fragmented information systems discouraged the adoption of innovative solutions. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted these gaps even more, showing the fragility of health and social care systems and the urgent need for digital transformation. Through this project, we aimed to promote a rights-based, user-centered approach, build skills, raise awareness, and foster social innovation by sharing best practices, developing a toolkit, and strengthening cooperation among European peers.<< Objectives >>The main objective of the project was to improve the quality of life and social inclusion of people with disabilities by promoting the use of assistive technologies and innovative care models. We aimed to enhance the skills and competences of social workers, carers, and families to introduce and effectively use assistive technologies, fostering greater autonomy and self-determination among disabled individuals. We wanted to raise awareness about the opportunities offered by digital tools, reduce stigma, and encourage a shift towards more inclusive, human-centered services. By exchanging best practices at the European level, we sought to create a shared knowledge base, develop an open-source toolkit for professional training, and build a sustainable network for future collaboration. Ultimately, the project aimed to initiate a process of social innovation, empowering disabled individuals and their support networks, while strengthening the capacity of our organizations to deliver more responsive, inclusive, and sustainable services.<< Implementation >>We implemented several key activities to achieve our project objectives. First, we set up strong project management procedures, including regular partner meetings, internal reporting, and a shared communication plan. We organized three exchange visits in Italy, Portugal, and Bulgaria, where professionals, disabled individuals, and families explored best practices in assistive technologies and independent living models. During these visits, participatory workshops were held with local stakeholders to discuss challenges, solutions, and innovations. We developed an open-source toolkit, collecting successful practices and creating training materials for social workers, users, and families. Dissemination activities included a hybrid final event at the D-Festival in Bergamo, local seminars, and a blended communication campaign across websites, social media, and Erasmus+ platforms. Throughout the project, we ensured the direct involvement of target groups, fostered peer learning, and promoted the open access and sustainability of all outputs.<< Results >>The project produced several concrete outputs and impactful results. We developed an open-source toolkit, including best practices, drafted training modules for professionals, and guidelines for families and disabled individuals on the use of assistive technologies. We successfully organized three exchange visits and participatory workshops in Italy, Portugal, and Bulgaria, fostering peer learning and knowledge sharing. A dedicated landing page was designed to host all project materials, ensuring free and ongoing access. We also implemented a blended communication campaign, reaching thousands through social media, websites, and local press. The project culminated in a final dissemination event at the D-Festival in Bergamo, raising public awareness about independent living and social inclusion. Importantly, the project enhanced the competences of social workers, promoted a user-centered approach, empowered disabled individuals and their families, and strengthened collaboration among European organizations, laying the groundwork for future initiatives.