How does SpecialEffect help?

We're dedicated to using technology to enhance the quality of life of people with disabilities. More specifically, we help people to play and enjoy computer games. For many with disabilities, the majority of computer games are simply too quick or too difficult to play. By working alongside them and their parents or carers to find out which games they CAN play, or by adapting those games that they can’t, we're having a profoundly positive impact on their mental wellbeing and overall quality of life.

We assist in the following ways:

• By adapting, developing and modifying cutting edge technology in our GamesLab and enabling young people to try out in a session in our GamesRoom.
• By supporting hospitals, hospices, special schools, etc in finding the right leisure technology for those young people who need it most, when they need it most, through our Roadshows.
• By loaning and supporting specialised games technology to young people through our Loan Library.
• By loaning and supporting gaze-controlled computers to people who have been paralysed due to a sudden injury or illness through our StarGaze Project.
• By providing information and training both at our Accessible Games Centre and through our website, in particular our Accessible GameBase.

Our team of specialist professionals have many years of experience in designing and adapting technology to help young people with physical and learning difficulties. Success with using this technology can lead to huge gains in self-confidence and motivation, and can provide a way for young people with disabilities to compete with others on a level playing field.

The doctor and the prop forward

Mick Donegan, our Director, explains why SpecialEffect was needed:

The SE Team

Want to know more about the team? Take a look at our staff page!