Assistive Technology Library to be piloted in Shropshire as part of the SEND & Alternative Provision Change Programme.

24/07/2025

Shropshire is one of 32 local areas where an ‘Assistive Technology Library’ will be piloted, enabling schools to borrow and trial a range of devices to support the learning of SEND students.  The devices will be loaned on a ‘try before you buy’ basis, giving schools a chance to measure the impact of different devices and ensure the most effective support is given. There will be a training offer developed for schools, so that teachers and support staff know how the technology on loan can be used to best effect.  At this point the devices on loan will only be available for use in school and will not be able to be taken home.

Shropshire Council, which is part of a Midlands Change Programme Partnership, will receive £39k to pilot an Assistive Technology Library and have spoken to PACC about the importance of hearing from parent carers, young people and schools about the devices they would like to be available through the library. 

PACC is working with Shropshire Council to develop a short survey so that SEND families can participate in the development of the Assistive Technology Library. We will also be championing the need for the experience of parent carers and young people to be central to understanding the success of the library and if it delivers the hoped for improved outcomes for SEND pupils. 

The initial survey about which devices should be available through the Library will be shared by PACC as soon as it is available.

The Governments press release about this work is available here