CD-ROM MAKES GAME OF DIRECT PAYMENTS
A new computer game that helps people with learning disabilities discover the benefits of direct payments has been launched by Speak Out in Hounslow.
At a special gathering of professionals in Brentford, staff from the voluntary organisation, which assists more than 300 people with learning disabilities in this borough to make the most of life and social opportunities available to them, launched the game called “What’s right for me?”
Although there are many electronic resources about direct payments, this is the first time an interactive game has been developed by any organisation in Britain.
The game, which uses bright colours, big fonts and animated photography, contains information about the life choices people can have if they use direct payments. Direct payments help people to ultimately have control over the services they need to assist them with their day-to-day lives.
The game has taken a year to develop from paper to CD-Rom and is one of several tools that Speak Out have designed to explain direct payments to people with learning disabilities. Others include a simple-to-follow guide and a film.
Cllr Pamela Fisher, Hounslow Council’s executive member for health and adult social services, said: “Speak Out in Hounslow has created some brilliant tools to explain the positives of direct payments and this is an excellent addition. The Council is committed to working in partnership with Speak Out to assist people with learning disabilities to live independently and make choices.”