The AbilityNet Podcast: Disability. Technology. Inclusion.

Ep 23 - How AbilityNet transforms lives through technology: 2024 Impact Report (AI Audio Summary)

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 11:35:22 +0000

In this episode of The AbilityNet Podcast, AbilityNet's Mark Walker discusses the results of AbilityNet's 2024 Impact Report, in an audio summary of the key aspects of the report itself.

We're always keen to learn about new technology and its possible value for older and disabled people, so this audio has been built using AI with voice clones for Mark and his co-host, Gwen Bakewell.

It's a different way of communicating, so please let us know what you think.

You can download the AbilityNet Impact Report 2024 from the AbilityNet website.

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

AN Podcast Ep 22 - Tech4Good Champions: BanktheFood

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 08:48:00 +0000

In this episode of The AbilityNet Podcast, AbilityNet's Freya Robinson welcomes Emma Spring, co-founder and trustee of BanktheFood, a charity revolutionising food bank operations.

Emma talks about the story behind BanktheFood, the difficulties food banks have in getting their requirements communicated, and the significance of BanktheFood's cutting-edge app, which notifies contributors at supermarkets in real time, guaranteeing timely and relevant contributions.

You can get involved and support BanktheFood’s impactful initiative, by downloading their free app: https://www.bankthefood.org/downloadapp/

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

AN Podcast Ep 21 - Embracing Neurodiversity: Building an Inclusive Workplace

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 08:55:00 +0000

Robin Christopherson is joined by Matthew Bellringer to discuss neurodiversity, its importance in the workplace, and how organisations can foster an inclusive culture.

Find out more about Matthew by visiting his website: https://www.matthewbellringer.com/links/

Explore AbilityNet’s online learning modules for workplaces: https://abilitynet.org.uk/elearning-workplace

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

AN Podcast Ep 20- Disability Inclusion Insights with ClearTalents

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 08:55:00 +0100

In this episode of Disability Inclusion Insights, Claire Jones, Director at ClearTalents, joins Lizi and Adam to discuss how to create an inclusive workplace, the importance of reasonable adjustments, and how technology is driving disability inclusion.

If you'd like to connect with ClearTalents or Claire Jones, visit cleartalents.info or email Claire at claire.jones@cleartalents.com

Explore AbilityNet’s online learning modules for workplaces: https://abilitynet.org.uk/elearning-workplace

Access a free factsheet on Disability and Employment: www.abilitynet.org.uk/factsheets/disability-and-employment

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

AN Podcast Ep19 - What can I expect at TechShare Pro 2023?

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 09:05:00 +0100

Mark Walker and Robin Christopherson spill the beans on what to expect at TechShare Pro 2023. Artificial Intelligence, the European Accessibility Act, and winning the business case for accessibility are just a taste of the topics.

Join us in-person or online, and secure your ticket for TechShare Pro 2023: www.techsharepro.com

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

AN Podcast Ep18 - How Smart Socks could transform dementia care

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 08:55:00 +0100

In this engaging conversation, Zeke Steer, CEO of Milbotix, explains the origins of Smart Socks, their unique technology, and how they are currently being trialled. He also discusses their future plans, including potential expansion into at-home use.

Milbotix is crowdfunding on Crowdcube. Join them on their mission to create a better future for those with dementia: https://www.crowdcube.com/companies/milbotix-ltd/pitches/bPJy1l

Find out more about Milbotix: milbotix.com

Access a free factsheet on Dementia and Computing: abilitynet.org.uk/factsheets/dementia-and-computing

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

AN Podcast Ep17 - Disability Inclusion Insights with Boots UK

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 09:21:04 +0100

In this episode of Disability Inclusion Insights, Rosa Salamone, Process Manager for SAP Procurement at Boots UK, joins Lizi and Adam to share her personal experiences and perspectives regarding the significance of hiring disabled people. Rosa also delves into various initiatives that Boots UK has undertaken to champion inclusivity.

Explore AbilityNet’s online learning modules for workplaces: https://abilitynet.org.uk/elearning-workplace

Access a free factsheet on Disability and Employment: www.abilitynet.org.uk/factsheets/disability-and-employment

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

AN Podcast Ep16 - How Vigilent is using AI to reduce carbon emissions

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 08:55:00 +0100

Cliff Federspiel, President and CTO at Vigilent, joins Robin Christopherson to discuss how Vigilent, winners of the AbilityNet Tech4Good Awards 2023's Sustainability Award, uses AI and machine learning to optimise industrial systems while reducing carbon emissions.

Find out more about Vigilent: vigilent.com

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions, and comments.

AN Podcast Ep15 - Microsoft and its Adaptive Accessories

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 08:55:00 +0100

John Helmes and Michael Vermeersch from Microsoft join Robin Christopherson to chat about Microsoft’s Adaptive Accessories. They talk about how these accessories are making a difference in the lives of disabled people and explore how AI might shake things up in terms of customising devices to individual needs.

Here is a list of resources that were referenced during the episode:

This video provides an overview of the Microsoft Adaptive Accessories: Meet the new Adaptive Accessories from Microsoft
Find more information about Microsoft Adaptive Accessories here: Accessible accessories for PC and Gaming
Find examples of how the Microsoft Adaptive Accessories can be used in this YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@JaraUnlockingPotential
3D printed customizations for the Microsoft Adaptive Accessories can be found at Shapeways
Find out more about free digital skills training for people over 65: www.abilitynet.org.uk/BTDigitalSkills

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions, and comments.

AN Podcast Ep14 - AXS Passport, winner of Tech4Good’s Workplace Inclusion award

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 08:49:00 +0100

Ellie Thompson from Diversity and Ability joins Robin Christopherson to talk about the story behind the award-winning AXS Passport, its impact on both individuals and organisations, and its future advancements.

Access Diversity and Ability’s AXS Passport, to begin sharing your accessibility and inclusion requirements: https://axs-passport.co/

Book your free 15-minute Gap Analysis taster session: www.abilitynet.org.uk/gap-analysis

Access a free factsheet on Disability and Employment: www.abilitynet.org.uk/factsheets/disability-and-employment

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions, and comments.

AN Podcast Ep13 - Disability Inclusion Insights with High Speed Two (HS2)

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 09:02:00 +0100

Welcome to our new series, Disability Inclusion Insights! Join Lizi Green and Adam Tweed, AbilityNet’s expert Digital Inclusion Consultants, in this series to interview leaders in workplace disability inclusion from across industries and around the world.

To kick off this new series, Maria Grazia Zedda, Senior Equality Diversity Inclusion Manager at High Speed Two (HS2), joins Lizi and Adan to share her story and top tips for building inclusion within an organisation.

Book your free 15-minute Gap Analysis taster session: www.abilitynet.org.uk/gap-analysis

Access a free factsheet on Disability and Employment: www.abilitynet.org.uk/factsheets/disability-and-employment

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions, and comments.

AN Podcast Ep12 - User generated accessibility information with Euan’s Guide and AccessNow

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 09:00:00 +0100

Cam Beaudoin hosts an insightful fireside chat with Euan MacDonald MBE, Co-founder of Euan’s Guide, and Maayan Ziv, CEO of AccessNow, to discuss user-generated accessibility information.

Cam, Euan, and Maayan discuss:

The origins of Euan’s Guide and Access Now

MapMissions

How they gather and use user-generated information

Whether venues, restaurants, and other locations are becoming more accessible

What lies next for Euan’s Guide and Access Now

Discover accessible places on www.accessnow.com and www.euansguide.com

Robin shares the 7 principles of universal design in his useful blog article: https://abilitynet.org.uk/news-blogs/7-principles-universal-design

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

AN Podcast Ep11 - Accessible procurement with Liz Heaney of Google

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 15:25:33 +0100

Liz Heaney, Senior Solutions Consultant - Program Management at Google, joins Mark Walker to discuss her advice and tips for accessible procurement.

Liz and Mark discuss:

Processes for accessible procurement at Google

How connecting and approaching your procurement team is key to advancing accessibility

The key questions to ask suppliers and vendors in regard to accessibility

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

AN Podcast Ep10 - Mike Buckley shares all on Be My Eyes and its Virtual Volunteer tool

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 09:15:00 +0100

Mike Buckley, CEO of Be My Eyes, joins us this week to provide the latest on Be My Eyes and its Virtual Volunteer tool.

Mike and Robin discuss:

The story behind the Be My Eyes app and how it works
The benefits of using the Be My Eyes app
The latest on Be My Eye’s Virtual Volunteer tool

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

AN Podcast Ep9 - Joe Devon on Global Accessibility Awareness Day, Artificial Intelligence and Overlays

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 10:10:00 +0100

2 Weeks since Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), co-founder Joe Devon joins Robin Christopherson to discuss:

This year’s GAAD events and whether we’re moving towards a more digital accessible world
How Artificial Intelligence (AI) could be game-changing for accessibility
Why accessibility overlays don’t improve a website’s accessibility

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

AN Podcast Ep8 - Why inclusion is good for business (a CEO perspective) and Caroline Casey

Thu, 18 May 2023 09:33:23 +0100

To mark Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), we are excited to share the jam-packed opening session from TechShare Pro 2022 - featuring HSBC, Channel 4, Google, and the Valuable 500!

In the latest podcast episode, accessibility leaders and CEOs share their advice and experience of embedding inclusion and accessibility into their organisations. We also catch up with Caroline Casey from the Valuable 500, who shares the latest stats on disability inclusion from the 500.

What do organisations of all shapes and sizes think about digital accessibility? In September 2022 AbilityNet surveyed more than 400 professionals worldwide about attitudes to digital accessibility in their organisation. You can download the full report on our website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/attitudes2022

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

AN Podcast Ep7 - Tech4Good Awards with Digit Music

Thu, 04 May 2023 09:37:09 +0100

Digit Music fuses its musical know-how with gaming design to create an environment where anybody can make music.

Si Tew, founder of Digit Music, joins Mark Walker to discuss:

The innovative Cmpsr (previously known as Control One)
The process and aftermath of winning a Tech4Good Award
Exciting projects that Digit Music is currently working on

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions, and comments.

AN Podcast Ep6 - Tech4Good Awards with Cosmic

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 09:15:58 +0100

Celebrating its 25th Anniversary, Cosmic is a social enterprise working to close the digital divide by providing key support, skills, and motivation to people of all ages and abilities.

10 years since winning a Tech4Good Award, Julie Hawker, Co-CEO at Cosmic, joins Mark Walker to discuss:

The work Cosmic does to help improve digital inclusion
How Cosmic tackles digital inclusion in rural areas
The impact of winning a Tech4Good Award

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions, and comments.

AN Podcast Ep5 - Tech4Good Awards with Peek Vision

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 09:31:19 +0100

With 1.1 billion people living with avoidable or preventable vision impairment, Peek Vision's app is operating to provide portable eye examination kits for comprehensive eye examinations in even the remotest of settings.

Jeanette McKenna, Head of Sustainability, Marketing and Development at Peek Vision, joins Mark Walker to discuss:

The story behind Peek Vision and how its technology continues to develop
How winning a Tech4Good Award helped Peek Vision

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions, and comments.

AN Podcast Ep4 - Tech4Good Awards with what3words

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 09:27:30 +0100

The AbilityNet Tech4Good Awards are back, and this week's episode features what3words, the winner of the BT Ingenious Award in 2015.

Giles Rhys Jones, Chief Marketing Officer at what3words, joins Mark Walker to discuss:

The story behind what3words
Using what3words to find accessible entrances
How what3words has been used by delivery companies, emergency services, and within Favelas in Brazil

Learn more about how to use what3words: https://what3words.com/ways-to-use

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website: www.abilitynet.org.uk/podcast

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions, and comments.

AN Podcast Ep3 - Update on the Access to Work scheme

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 09:22:24 +0000

In this week’s episode, we are joined by Adi Latif, Accessibility and Usability Consultant at AbilityNet, and Debbie Bradford and Ian Milton from UK's Department for Work and Pension.

They joined TechSharePro 2022, to share recent updates to the Access to Work scheme:

New online portal for Access to Work payments
Access to Work support for hybrid working
Adjustments Passports for disabled students
Health Adjustments Passports and job seekers
Access to Work Passports for Disabled contractors and freelancers

You can access a blog article that also explains what the Access to Work scheme updates means.

Or access our free factsheet for the ins and outs of applying for an Access to Work grant:

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

AN Podcast Ep2 - Apple, Innovation, and Accessibility

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 09:20:33 +0000

In this week’s podcast, AbilityNet’s Robin Christopherson MBE, Head of Digital Inclusion, and Mark Walker, Head of Marketing and Portfolio, reflect on Apple’s Keynote on Apple, Accessibility, and Innovation.

In this session, we are joined by Sarah Herrlinger Apple’s Senior Director of Global Accessibility Policy & Initiatives.

Sarah joined TechSharePro 2022, to discuss:

The connections between accessibility and innovation
Accessibility features of Apple’s products
Importance of accessibility at Apple
The future of AI and whether it's the next big thing for accessibility

Download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions, and comments.

AN Podcast Ep1 - SEO and Accessibility: Google’s perspective

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 09:34:55 +0000

In this week’s podcast, AbilityNet’s Robin Christopherson MBE, Head of Digital Inclusion, and Mark Walker, Head of Marketing and Portfolio, reflect on Google’s Keynote on Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) and accessibility at TechSharePro 2022.

In this session we are joined by Google’s Christopher Patnoe, EMEA Lead for Accessibility and Disability Inclusion, John Mueller, Senior Search Analyst and Lizzi Sassman, Senior Technical Writer.

They joined TechShare Pro 2022, to discuss:

Google crawlers and accessibility practices
What are the golden rules of Alt Text
Recommended tools and workflows for SEO and accessibility
The future of AI and its impact on accessibility (Artificial Intelligence)

You can also access a webinar recording where experts from AXA and Skyscanner share their top tips and advice on how accessibility can improve SEO.

Download a transcript of this session.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

Accessibility Insights with David Padmore and Matt Simpson of ITV

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 13:12:26 +0000

David Padmore is the Director of Accessibility for ITV and Matt Simpson is the Head of Technology within the Accessibility Services team for ITV.

They join AbilityNet as the series 2, episode 4 guest in our free Accessibility Insights webinar series.

In this podcast - an audio version of the webinar - David and Matt speaks with Robin Christopherson MBE, AbilityNet's Head of Digital Inclusion, who hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

In the free session David, Matt and Robin discuss:

The significant changes in TV and the accessibility of digital media delivery in the past 20 year
What people should expect from ITV's new streaming service, ITVX when it comes to accessibility and inclusion
The specific challenges for accessibility on streaming platforms
The regulatory and legal obligations around accessibility ITV faced with its streaming services
How ITV plans to deliver its services and the implications for digital inclusion in the future

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

Accessibility Insights with Natalie Tucker of Spotify

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 16:38:31 +0000

Natalie Tucker is the Senior Accessibility Lead at Spotify.

She joins AbilityNet as the series 2, episode 3 guest in our free Accessibility Insights webinar series.

In this podcast - an audio version of the webinar - Natalie speaks with Robin Christopherson MBE, AbilityNet's Head of Digital Inclusion, who hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

In the free session Natalie and Robin discuss:

The role of digital inclusion played in the growth of Spotify
Spotify's approach to accessibility when it comes to its audio and video content (Spotify uploads music videos as well as audio!)
The inclusion improvements to help listeners
How Spotify plans to deliver its services and the implications for digital inclusion in the future

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

Accessibility Insights with Heather Dowdy of Netflix

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 15:53:38 +0100

Heather Dowdy is the Director of Product Accessibility at Netflix.

She joins AbilityNet as the series 2, episode 2 guest in our free Accessibility Insights webinar series.

In this podcast - an audio version of the webinar - Heather speaks with Robin Christopherson MBE, AbilityNet's Head of Digital Inclusion, who hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

In the free session Heather and Robin discuss:

What impact the pandemic had on Heather's way of working
The accessibility benefits and challenges of remote working
The inclusion improvements to help viewers
How Netflix plans to deliver its services and the implications for digital inclusion in the future

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

Accessibility Insights with Hector Minto of Microsoft

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 17:02:41 +0100

Hector Minto is the Director of Accessibility, Lead Technology Evangelist at Microsoft.

He joins AbilityNet as the series 2, episode 1 guest in our free Accessibility Insights webinar series.

In this podcast - an audio version of the webinar - Hector speaks with Robin Christopherson MBE profile, AbilityNet's Head of Digital Inclusion, who hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

In the free session Hector and Robin discuss:

What has changed significantly in accessibility
Microsoft's recent additions to the specialist tech market
Where does AI fit in with Microsoft's current strategy
Where will Microsoft be focusing it's energies going forward in terms of legislation, awareness or tools

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

Accessibility Insights with Anita Mortaloni of Xbox at Microsoft

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 14:12:00 +0100

Anita Mortaloni is the Director of Accessibility of Xbox at Microsoft.

She joins us as the December guest in our free Accessibility Insights webinar series, now on its 18th episode.

In this podcast - an audio version of the webinar - Anita speaks with Robin Christopherson MBE, AbilityNet's Head of Digital Inclusion, who hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

In the free session Anita and Robin discuss:

Xbox Adaptive Controller and gaming
Gaming's accessibility progress
How the digital community can learn from an inclusive approach to gaming
The future of gaming
Microsoft's Gaming and Disability Player Experience Guide
Diverse experiences and abilities in gaming development

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP54: Accessibility Insights with Anita Mortaloni of Xbox at Microsoft

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 16:48:46 +0000

Anita Mortaloni is the Director of Accessibility of Xbox at Microsoft.

She joins us as the December guest in our free Accessibility Insights webinar series, now on its 18th episode.

In the free session Anita and Robin discuss:

Xbox Adaptive Controller and gaming
Gaming's accessibility progress
How the digital community can learn from an inclusive approach to gaming
The future of gaming
Microsoft's Gaming and Disability Player Experience Guide
Diverse experiences and abilities in gaming development

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP53: Accessibility Insights with Ted Drake of Intuit

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 14:47:04 +0000

Ted Drake is Global Accessibility and Inclusive Design Leader at Intuit, a financial software company that creates TurboTax and QuickBooks.

He joins us as the November guest in our free Accessibility Insights webinar series, now on its 17th episode.

In this podcast - an audio version of the webinar - Ted speaks with Robin Christopherson MBE, AbilityNet's Head of Digital Inclusion, who hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

In the free session Ted and Robin discuss:

Accessibility Champions at Intuit
Ted's thoughts about the future of tech and digital inclusion
Intuit's inclusion and diversity practices

 About Ted
“Accessibility is more than making sure images have alternate text. I work with engineers, product managers, and designers to understand how accessibility impacts the users, set realistic deadlines, and create the solutions to provide a delightful experience to all users, regardless of their physical, sensory, or cognitive ability,” says Ted, who leads the accessibility efforts for Intuit's desktop, web, and mobile products.

Ted is the co-founder of the Intuit Abilities Network for employees and promotes Intuit’s diversity in hiring programmes. Prior to Intuit, Ted co-founded Yahoo’s Accessibility Lab and was a developer evangelist. Ted speaks regularly at technology conferences and is a co-chair of the 2020 and 2021 Web4All Conference for accessibility research.

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP52: Accessibility Insights with Jonathan Mosen, CEO of Workbridge

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 16:12:42 +0100

Jonathan Mosen MNZM is CEO of Workbridge, an organisation that "gives employers access to skilled and capable workers, and gives people with disabilities a fair go in the workforce."

He joins us as the October guest in our free Accessibility Insights webinar series, now on its 16th episode. This podcast is

Jonathan speaks with Robin Christopherson MBE, AbilityNet's Head of Digital Inclusion, who hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

Workbridge is New Zealand's largest disability employment agency, and Jonathan is a veteran disability rights campaigner.

A Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) and winner of the Impact Award for his contribution to the disability community, Jonathan’s advocacy has led to significant legislative change in New Zealand, including the passage of New Zealand’s world-leading copyright legislation which ultimately led to the Marrakesh Treaty. Additionally, Jonathan has held senior leadership positions at global assistive technology companies HumanWare, Freedom Scientific and AIRA.

Jonathan also has lived experience of disability, being totally blind and hard of hearing. He hosts the   weekly Mosen At Large podcast, which brings a global community together for a live radio show and podcast discussing tech, living with blindness and more.

On this webinar recording, Jonathan and Robin discussed topics including:

Disabled people in education and the workplace
Changes to disability rights and cutting edge technology
The role assistive technology plays in the world today
Leadership, values and the needs of a diverse workforce

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP51: Accessibility Insights with Susanna Laurin of Funka and IAAP

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 16:53:03 +0100

Susanna Laurin, chairman and Chief Research and Innovation Officer at Funka, and also Representative to the EU for the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) joined us as the September guest in our free Accessibility Insights webinar series, now on its 15th episode.

Susanna speaks with Robin Christopherson MBE, AbilityNet's Head of Digital Inclusion, who hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

Susanna has more than 20 years experience in working with disability-related issues in senior roles, with several assignments for the European Commission. She led the expert group supporting the Commission during the transposition of the Web Accessibility Directive, and she is currently part of the team carrying out the review of the same legislation.

On the webinar, Susanna and Robin discussed topics including:

Development of the accessibility profession in Europe
User testing for accessibility
The challenges for accessibility enforcement
IAAP's role in promoting the accessibility profession

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP50: Accessibility Insights with Ursula Dolton from British Heart Foundation

Tue, 10 Aug 2021 16:41:40 +0100

Ursula Dolton of British Heart Foundation (BHF), who has been championing digital improvements at the major UK charity, as its first ever Chief Technology Officer, joins us as our guest in our free Accessibility Insights webinar series.

Ursula speaks with Robin Christopherson MBE, AbilityNet's Head of Digital Inclusion, who hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

Ursula is responsible for delivering BHF’s technology strategy in support of its charitable objectives. She has worked in technology leadership positions within major commercial organisations including at Cadbury, Citi Group and Jaguar Land Rover, and also the university sector.

On the webinar, Ursula and Robin discuss topics including:

How her charity, celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, focuses on diversity and inclusion within its teams and recruitment processes
honing digital services for external customers and donors
how collaboration helps drive customer experiences, and
the changing role of a tech leader in the pandemic.

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP49: Accessibility Insights with Richard Morton from UK Government (CDDO)

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 09:29:18 +0100

In this audio extract from AbilityNet's monthly Accessibility Insights webinar series, we welcome Richard Morton, Head of Accessibility at the UK Government's Central Digital and Data Office (CDDO) as the latest guest.

Robin Christopherson MBE Head of Digital Inclusion at AbilityNet hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

On this webinar, introduced by AbilityNet's Annie Mannion, Richard and Robin discuss topics including:

accessibility policy changes over the past decade,
the role of government in influencing accessibility developments,
the Public Sector Bodies Accessibility Regulations, and
how the government’s digital strategy might impact platforms going forward.

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP48: Accessibility Insights with Larry Goldberg of Verizon Media

Tue, 08 Jun 2021 14:52:00 +0100

In this audio extract from AbilityNet's monthly Accessibility Insights webinar series, we welcome Larry Goldberg, Head of Accessibility at Verizon Media as the latest guest.

Robin Christopherson MBE Head of Digital Inclusion at AbilityNet hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

On this webinar, introduced by AbilityNet's Annie Mannion, Larry Goldberg discusses topics including:

How technologies can both enable yet also create barriers for people with disabilities
How to support the next generation of accessibility professionals
Digital accessibility trends
Pushing the frontiers of future, inclusive experiences.

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP47: Accessibility Insights with Jennison Asuncion and Joe Devon, co-founders of GAAD

Tue, 04 May 2021 16:11:01 +0100

In this audio extract from AbilityNet's monthly Accessibility Insights webinar series, we welcome Jennison Asuncion and Joe Devon, co-founders of Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) as the latest guests.

Robin Christopherson MBE Head of Digital Inclusion at AbilityNet hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

On this webinar, introduced by AbilityNet's Annie Mannion, Jennison and Joe discussed their experiences creating GAAD, what they've learned along the way, and their plans for the future of inclusion and accessibility.

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP46: Accessibility Insights with Emma Pratt Richens of the BBC

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 12:11:55 +0100

In this audio extract from AbilityNet's monthly Accessibility Insights webinar series, we welcome Emma Pratt Richens, Accessibility Specialist at the BBC, as our latest guest.

Robin Christopherson MBE Head of Digital Inclusion at AbilityNet hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

On this webinar, introduced by AbilityNet's Annie Mannion, Emma and Robin discussed:

Emma's decades of web experience including front-end web development, UX and accessibility-focused roles
Developments in attitudes towards web accessibility
Accessibility, disability, and empathy while working from home during a pandemic
Technology's role within inclusive practices in the future

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP45: Accessibility Insights with Caroline Casey of The Valuable 500

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 17:08:27 +0000

In this audio extract from AbilityNet's monthly Accessibility Insights webinar series, we welcome Caroline Casey, founder of The Valuable 500, as the latest guest.

Robin Christopherson MBE Head of Digital Inclusion at AbilityNet hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

On this webinar, introduced by AbilityNet's Annie Mannion, Caroline and Robin discussed:

recent highlights with The Valuable 500,
learnings about diversity and digital inclusion from COVID and remote working,
what the future looks like for people with disabilities, and
what needs to change to create more inclusive organisations.

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you will also find additional Q&As.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP44: Accessibility Insights with Sarah Herrlinger of Apple

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 17:18:05 +0000

In this audio extract from AbilityNet's monthly Accessibility Insights webinar series, we welcome Sarah Herrlinger, Senior Director of Global Accessibility, Policy & Initiatives at Apple as the latest guest.

Robin Christopherson MBE Head of Digital Inclusion at AbilityNet hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

On this webinar, introduced by AbilityNet's Annie Mannion, Sarah discussed Apple's accessibility developments over the past year, its experiences with Covid 19, and how the organisation prioritises inclusion.

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you can also find additional Q&As and shownotes.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP43: Accessibility Insights with Alejandro Moledo of the European Disability Forum

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 10:18:54 +0000

In this audio extract from AbilityNet's monthly Accessibility Insights webinar series, we welcome Alejandro Moledo, Policy Coordinator at the European Disability Forum (EDF) as the latest guest.

Robin Christopherson MBE Head of Digital Inclusion at AbilityNet hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

On this webinar, Alejandro discussed the recent EU legislation on accessibility (the European Accessibility Act), and accessibility issues across media, telecoms and emerging technologies (AI, robotics, smart environments) and more.

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you can also find additional Q&As and shownotes.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP42: Accessibility Insights with Malin Rygg of the Norwegian Digitalisation Agency

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 11:18:23 +0000

In this audio extract from our monthly Accessibility Insights webinar series, we welcome Malin Rygg, Head Of Department at the Norwegian Digitalisation Agency as the latest guest.

Robin Christopherson MBE Head of Digital Inclusion at AbilityNet hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

On this webinar, Malin spoke about enforcing inclusive design principles, and the challenges and successes she has experienced with this in Norway.

You can download a transcript of this session from the AbilityNet website and about view the video recording of the webinar on the AbilityNet website, where you can also find additional Q&As and shownotes.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP41: Accessibility Insights with Christopher Patnoe of Google: November 2020

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 10:27:49 +0000

This is an audio recording of our Accessibility Insights webinar series, this month featuring Christopher Patnoe, Head of Accessibility Programs and Disability Inclusion at Google chatting with AbilityNet's Robin Christopherson MBE, Head of Digital Inclusion. The session is introduced by Annie Mannion, Digital Communications Manager at AbilityNet.

On the webinar, Christopher, whose background includes innovation roles at Disney Mobile, Sony Ericsson and Apple, shared inclusivity developments at Google and discussed topics including:

Covid-19
The future of digital accessibility
Augmented Reality and Artificial Intelligence

And more!

You can access the webinar recording on the AbilityNet website, along with slides and Q&As from the session.

Download a text transcript of this session via the AbilityNet website.

Book your tickets for TechShare Pro 2020.

TSP40: Accessibility Insights with Bryn Anderson of Sainsbury's

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 09:00:16 +0100

This is an audio recording of our new Accessibility Insights webinar series, this month featuring Bryn Anderson, Digital Accessibility Specialist at Sainsbury's chatting with AbilityNet's Robin Christopherson MBE, Head of Digital Inclusion. The session is introduced by Annie Mannion, Digital Communications Manager at AbilityNet.

Bryn supports all of Sainsbury’s' brands to build accessible web and mobile applications. He played a key role in Sainsbury’s' COVID-19 Feeding the Nation work, which shone a spotlight on disability and accessibility both at Sainsbury’s and across society as a whole.

Bryn has a background in customer experience and product development, accessibility testing, and is a contributing author to the W3C Accessibility Conformance Testing Rules Community Group.

Born with albinism, Bryn is registered visually impaired, and has a keen interest on the mental impact of inclusive versus non-inclusive experiences in regard to social participation and brand perception.

You can access the webinar recording on the AbilityNet website, along with slides and Q&As from the session.

Download a text transcript of this session via the AbilityNet website.

TSP39: Accessibility Insights with Paul Smyth of Barclays

Wed, 09 Sep 2020 10:06:05 +0100

This is an audio recording of our new Accessibility Insights webinar series, this month featuring Paul Smyth MBE, Head of Digital Accessibility at Barclays chatting with AbilityNet's Robin Christopherson MBE, Head of Digital Inclusion.

As founder and leader of Digital Accessibility at Barclays, Paul's an international expert and thought leader who helps to address technological barriers faced by disabled customers or staff. Over recent years Paul’s led on a number of firsts for accessible banking, including talking ATMs, high visibility debit cards and regularly performing disabled user testing across the Barclays website and mobile app. He’s also helped overhaul their Workplace Adjustments process to support staff with disabilities to be as productive as possible.   Topics covered in the chat include:

How COVID-19 has impacted Barclays customers and staff
Where accessible banking is heading
How Barclays embeds accessibility at scale
How the accessibility profession is evolving

You can access the webinar recording on the AbilityNet website, along with Q&As from the session.

Download a text transcript of this session via the AbilityNet website.

TSP38: Accessibility Insights with Neil Milliken

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 12:00:09 +0100

This podcast is an audio recording of an AbilityNet webinar, which was broadcast live on Tuesday 11 August 2020.

Neil Milliken, Global Head of Accessibility for Atos, is grilled by AbilityNet's Head of Digital Inclusion, Robin Christopherson, as the second guest in our new Accessibility Insights webinar series. In the series, Robin enjoys monthly online chats with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

Neil's role is to deliver better technology for customers and employees, embedding inclusive practice into the processes of the organisation, which has thousands of employees and an annual turnover of billions.

Neil is co-founder of #AXSChat, Europe’s largest twitter chat with a focus on Accessibility & Inclusion.

In this session, Neil and Robin discuss dyslexia, ADHD, visual impairments, WCAG, Authoring Tool Accessibility Guidelines (ATAG), Wix and more...

Download the transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website and view the video recording of the session on the AbilityNet website, where you can also find additional Q&As and shownotes.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP37 Accessibility Insights episode 1- Jenny Lay-Flurrie from Microsoft

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 14:06:41 +0100

We're delighted to welcome Microsoft's Chief Accessibility Officer, Jenny Lay-Flurrie as the first guest in our new Accessibility Insights series.

Robin Christopherson MBE, Head of Digital Inclusion at AbilityNet hosts a monthly online chat with individuals who are each working to improve digital accessibility and digital inclusion.

Among other discussion topics, Jenny and Robin chat about Microsoft and Covid-19, Be My Eyes, and Microsoft's recent Ability Summit.

Listen back to this bitesize, 30 minute session, originally recorded as a webinar and broadcast via AbilityNet on Tuesday 21 July 2020.

You can download the transcript of this session and view the video recording of the session on the AbilityNet website.

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP36 Interview: Chris Hughes of Salford University on their inclusive, immersive web player

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 14:33:18 +0000

Today we're talking with Dr Chris Hughes, Computer Science Lecturer at the University of Salford and a panelist on the Inclusive Immersive Experiences session at TechShare Pro, about the University's cool web player that's now available for everyone to try out.

Here's the link to its ImAc pilot web player. Have a go and give your feedback.

Download a text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

All speaker info and slides are available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro . Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP35 Session: Google Euphonia and Live Transcribe

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 09:05:55 +0000

Today we catch up on the latest developments in cutting-edge, real-time speech recognition from Dimitri Kanevsky, research senior scientist at Google.

Speaker:
Dimitri Kanevsky, Research Scientist, Google

Download a text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

All speaker info and slides are available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP34 Session: Creating an Accessibility Champions Network

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 11:39:56 +0000

An Accessibility Champions Network is a great way to build your internal capability and change the culture of your organisation to make inclusive design business as usual. So what is a champions network? How do you start building one? What are the options and how long does it take to build?

Speakers -

Christopher Patnoe, Senior Programs Manager, Google Accessibility
Emanuela Gorma, Senior Digital Accessibility Manager, Barclays
Cassandra Marrero, Modern Communications Product Marketing Manager, Microsoft
Emma Pratt Richens, Senior Accessibility Specialist, BBC UX&D (User Experience & Design)

Download a text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

All speaker info and slides are available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP33 Heather Burns on how Brexit killed the European Accessibility Act in the UK

Thu, 05 Mar 2020 10:54:19 +0000

Today we have a special interview with Heather Burns; tech, policy and regulations specialist on how Brexit has called time on the European Accessibility Act ever becoming UK law and what this means for disabled UK citizens and UK PLC.

Download a text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

All speaker info and slides are available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP32 Panel: HE and public sector regulations

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 10:31:34 +0000

With speakers from Barclays, Microsoft and beyond, today's episode is the last word in the law, the regulations and the top things to be aware of in the area of higher education and public sector compliance.

Chair

Abi James, Accessibility and Usability Consultant, AbilityNet

Panel

Alistair McNaught, Director, Alistair McNaught Consultancy
Aaron Prior, Industry Executive, Microsoft
George Rhodes, Accessibility Consultant
Paul Smyth, Head of Digital Accessibility, Barclays

Download a text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

All speaker info and slides are available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP31 Session: Verizon Media - Embedding accessibility in every project

Tue, 25 Feb 2020 15:00:00 +0000

With brands like Yahoo, HuffPost and TechCrunch, Verizon Media helps people stay informed and entertained, communicate and transact, while creating new ways for advertisers and partners to connect. They are committed to inclusion both in the accessibility of products and in media representation.

Speaker:
Samantha Soloway, Accessibility Lab Manager, Verizon Media

Download a text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

All speaker info and slides are available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP30 Panel: Accessibility leadership

Thu, 20 Feb 2020 16:10:47 +0000

What lessons can we learn from others about how to win the case for accessibility within our organisations? And what are the best tactics for achieving lasting change? Let's let the panel enlighten us with their take on this important issue.

Chair:

Christopher Lee, Managing Director, IAAP

Panel:

Jenny Lay-Flurrie, Chief Accessibility Officer, Microsoft
Sarah Herrlinger, Director of Global Accessibility Policy & Initiatives, Apple
Christopher Patnoe, Senior Programs Manager, Google Accessibility
Paul Smyth, Head of Digital Accessibility, Barclays

Download a text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

All speaker info and slides are available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP29 Session: Understanding the potential of mobile phones as assistive technologies

Tue, 18 Feb 2020 15:00:00 +0000

Another great episode today. It's the Groupe Speciale Mobile (GSM) Association's take on the potential of mobile phones to change the lives of disabled people. Don't I know it.

Speaker:
Clara Aranda-Jan, Insights Manager, GSMA

Download a text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

All speaker info and slides are available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro . Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP28 Panel: Accessible Immersive Experiences

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 14:59:00 +0000

Creating accessible immersive experiences for multi-media audiences is at the forefront of industry best practice. Let's hear from the experts who are pushing the frontiers of future, inclusive experiences.

Chair

Dr. Ben Shirley, Acoustic Research Centre, University of Salford

Panelists

Larry Goldberg, Senior Director & Head of Accessibility, Verizon Media
Dr Chris Hughes, Computer Science Lecturer, University of Salford
Rupert Brun, Broadcast Consultant, Fraunhofer
Jamie Hindhaugh, Chief Operating Officer, BT Sport

Download a text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

All speaker info and slides are available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro . Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP27 Session: Haben Girma & Paul Walsh on accessibility the Lenovo way

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 15:47:26 +0000

Today's is a great session by two experts from Lenovo; Paul Walsh and Haben Girma. I'm sure everyone who attended the session (or heard our earlier interview with them both) would agree that Haben is the real superstar here (sorry Paul). She is the first deafblind graduate of Harvard Law School, an advocate for people with disabilities and the first Lenovo Accessibility and Inclusion Advisor.

She travels the world teaching individuals and organisations how inclusion is an opportunity for innovation, which aligns perfectly with Lenovo’s vision of a world that delivers Smarter Technology for All and a digital future that is inclusive of everyone, everywhere.

Speakers

Paul Walsh, Chief Digital Officer, Lenovo
Haben Girma, Accessibility and Inclusion Advisor, Lenovo

Download a text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

All speaker info and slides will be available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP26 Panel: Carrots and sticks - A global perspective

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 15:21:21 +0000

What is the best way to overcome the barriers created by people and organisations who do not consider accessibility and inclusive design when building digital services and products? Do we simply need to raise awareness of the business benefits of accessibility, or do we need more effective legal frameworks to focus the minds of decision-makers?

Our panel offered a perspective on this question from around the globe - including the US, Europe, Israel and Norway.

Chair
Eleanor Southwood, Chair of Trustees, RNIB

Panelists

Alejandro Moledo, Policy Co-ordinator, European Disability Forum
Malin Rygg, Head of Authority for Universal Design of ICT, DIFI, Norway
Stuart Seaborn, Managing Director of Litigation, Disability Rights Advocates
Yuval Wagner, Founder and President, Access Israel Org

Download a text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

All speaker info and slides will be available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.

Follow AbilityNet on Twitter with #TechSharePro. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP25 Session: The Big Hack and Purple Pound

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 15:09:03 +0000

The Big Hack is an ambitious programme being developed by Scope as a call to action for the tech industry to become more inclusive of disabled people. It includes a range of projects and new resources which aim to win the case and provide the practical tools for inclusive design.

Speakers

Kristina Barrick, Head of Digital Influencing, Scope
Craig Moss, Research Manager, Scope
James Taylor, Head of Policy and Campaigns, Scope
Anel Touchet, Senior Economist, ScopeDownload a of this episode.

Download a text transcript of this episode via the AbilityNet website.

All speaker info and slides will be available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP24 Panel: Ethics, machine learning and disabilities

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 20:40:28 +0000

Artificial Intelligence is changing our world at an incredible rate, powering innovations such as speech and image recognition in ways which can transform the lives of disabled people. However, we are also seeing many examples of AI-powered services which create unintended barriers for disabled people, whether through poor design, lack of representative data or flaws in algorithms. Our panel placed the needs of disabled people at the centre of the discussion, whilst looking at a range of social and technology issues which needed to be addressed.

Chair -
Abi James, Accessibility and Usability Consultant, AbilityNet

Panelists -
Christopher Patnoe, Senior Programs Manager, Google Accessibility
Sarah Herrlinger, Director of Global Accessibility Policy & Initiatives, Apple
Reema Patel, Head of Public Engagement, Ada Lovelace Institute
Anja Thieme, Senior Researcher in Human-Computer Interaction, Microsoft

Download a text transcript of this episode.

All speaker info and slides will be available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.
Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro

Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP23 Keynote: Caroline Casey of the Valuable 500

Wed, 29 Jan 2020 16:14:40 +0000

I defy anyone not to be moved by Caroline's amazing keynote about the importance of strongly including disability in the broader diversity agenda. It starts with a fantastic video called '#Diversish'. You can easily find it by searching for that hashtag on YouTube.

Download a text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

All speaker info and slides will be available on the TechShare Pro 2019 schedule page.
Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP22 Session: Inclusive travelling back to the smart home of today

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 15:00:00 +0000

How can innovative collaboration with major transport providers and airports help to bring about a deeper level of staff understanding and improved customer experience - and what kind of accommodations might a ride hailing service implement to ensure that it's accessible to people with disabilities? Why is the smart home particularly helpful from an accessibility perspective - and what recent innovations might assist in enabling greater inclusion?

Chair -
Robin Spinks, Principal Manager, Digital Accessibility, RNIB
The RNIB Wayfinding project -
Marc Powell, Strategic Relationships, Innovation through Partnership, RNIB
John Worsfold, Innovation and Technology Implementation Manager, Innovation through Partnership, RNIB

Uber's approach to accessibility -
Ekaterina Petkova, UKI Accessibility Operations Manager, Uber

Download a text transcript of this episode via the AbilityNet website.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP21 Panel: Audio description and video on demand

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 15:00:00 +0000

This next full session audio we're bringing you is all about accessible media; that's subtitles, closed captioning and audio description etc. Hear from industry leaders in the broadcast and video on-demand space such as the BBC, ITV, Amazon and Apple about what's the state of play today and what the future may hold. You'll hear from:
Chair -
Sonali Rai, Broadcast Relationships and Audio Description Manager, RNIB
Panelists -
Nigel Megitt, Executive Product Manager, BBC
Sarah Herrlinger, Director, Global Accessibility Policy & Initiatives, Apple
Jane Laurance, Head of Specialist Broadcast Services, ITV
Abhiram Moturi, Senior Product Manager - Technical Prime Video Accessibility and Core CX, Amazon
Mariana Lopez, Senior Lecturer in Sound Production and Post Production, Dept. of Theatre, Film, TV and Interactive Media, University of York
Netflix audio description guidelines.

Download a text transcript of this episode via the AbilityNet website.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro2019. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP20 Session: Accessible gaming

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 15:00:00 +0000

The first full session audio we're bringing you is a doozy; Accessible gaming. You'll learn approximately 15x as much about how to create and test for accessible games on the console and in the browser by the end of today's episode so strap yourself in. You'll hear from:

Introduction -
Dafydd Henke-Reed, Accessibility and Usability Consultant, AbilityNet
Game accessibility update -
Ian Hamilton, Game Accessibility Specialist

BBC game accessibility research -
Lauren Moore, Design Researcher, BBC Children's, BBC

Playstation accessibility -
Mark Friend, Principal User Researcher, Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe

Download Mark's slides
Download a text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro2019. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP19 Top tips and insights from TechShare Pro

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 15:00:00 +0000

We're back and bringing you some more juicy audio from TechShare Pro. Coming up soon in the feed will be full recordings from a range of different sessions, but for now let's get some more useful insights from a selection of event sponsors and speakers. Featured in today's episode; Christopher Patnoe of Google, Hector Minto of Microsoft, Emanuela Gorma of Barclays, Haben Girma and Paul Walsh of Lenovo, Jennison Asuncion of LinkedIn and finally Caroline Casey of the Valuable 500.

Download a text transcription of this episode.

Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro2019. Get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

TSP18 Christopher Patnoe and kyndra Price of Google on accessibility the Google way

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 15:00:00 +0000

A whopper of an interview today guys. In the next half hour, two accessibility experts from Google get grilled on all things accessibility. This is the last feature to drop into the feed for now, but we hope to be back soon with all those sweet, sweet sessions from the event. Watch this space.

Download a text transcription of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

TSP17 Mark Friend from Sony on accessible console gaming

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Can triple-A console titles ever be fully inclusive. Mark Friend from Sony gives us the low-down in today's full-length interview.

Download a text transcript of this episode via the AbilityNet website.

TSP16 David Williams of Sony on their accessible Android TVs

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Today we bring you the full interview with David Williams, Divisional Director of Sony Home Entertainment and Sound, in which we discuss all things accessibility on their range of Android TVs.

Download a text transcript of this episode via the AbilityNet website.

TSP15 Abhi Moturi and Paul Duncan of Amazon on all things video and accessibility

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Our full-length interview offering today is with two great guys from Amazon, discussing all things accessibility but mostly streaming video-related.

Download a text transcript of this episode via the AbilityNet website.

TSP14 Haben Girma and Paul Walsh of Lenovo on the importance of diversity

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Today's full-length interview to kick off the run is with Lenovo's Chief Digital Officer, Paul Walsh, and their recently recruited accessibility consultant and all-round superstar, Haben Girma.

Download a text transcript of this episode via the AbilityNet website.

TSP13 The Second Post-Event Show

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 15:00:00 +0000

In this second of our post-event procasts, Steven and Robin bring you the rest of the best from TechShare Pro 2019. Amongst the audio-goodness is the amazing Haben Girma on disability identity, Abhi Moturi and Paul Duncan of Amazon on prioritising a (perhaps surprising) video audience, David Williams and Mark Friend from Sony on engaging with disabled users and much more from Christopher Patnoe of Google - this time joined by the lovely Kyndra Price of same - to discuss everything from Google Glass to driverless cars. Please tell your friends and make sure you stay subscribed as a large number of full-length interviews will drop, as usual, in the days to come.

The hashtag is #TechSharePro2019 and you can also contact the show via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

Download a full text transcript of this episode from the AbilityNet website.

TSP12 Malin Rygg of Norway's Authority for Universal Design of ICT and Stuart Seaborn of US not for profit Disability Rights Advocates

Mon, 02 Dec 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Today's full-length interview is a corker. Malin Rygg and Stuart Seaborn discuss the legal landscape and business case for digital inclusion in Europe and the US. 30 minutes of magic.

Download a text transcript of the full Malin and Stuart interview via the AbilityNet website.

TSP11 Eleanor Southwood on accessibility carrots and sticks and the importance of disabled user involvement

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 08:00:00 +0000

Covering all aspects of both the legal and business cases, today we bring you the full interview with RNIB Chair Eleanor Southwood who was fresh from chairing the Carrots and Sticks expert panel session.

Download a text transcript of Eleanor's interview via the AbilityNet website.

TSP10 Sarah Herrlinger on accessibility the Apple way

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 15:00:00 +0000

Today we have a really good, long interview with all-round accessibility superstar, Sarah Herrlinger of Apple in which we cover a broad range of topics - every one a corker.

Download a text transcript of Sarah's interview via the AbilityNet website.

TSP9 - Caroline Casey on the Valuable 500

Wed, 27 Nov 2019 15:00:00 +0000

A truly brilliant interview to kick off the series of full-length chats we've got coming up in the feed, today Caroline Casey, founder of the Valuable 500, talks to Steven Scott about her life, her fear of tech and her mission to change the world.

Download a text transcript of the full Caroline Casey interview via the AbilityNet website.

TSP8 - The First Post-Event Show

Tue, 26 Nov 2019 15:00:00 +0000

In this first of our post-event procasts, Steven and Robin bring you the best of the best from TechShare Pro 2019. Amongst the audio goodness is Caroline Casey of the Valuable 500, Jenny Lay-Flurrie of Microsoft, Sarah Herrlinger of Apple and lots of carrots and lots and lots of sticks. Please tell your friends and make sure you stay subscribed as a large number of full-length interviews will drop, as usual, in the days to come.

The hashtag is #TechSharePro 2019 and you can also contact the show via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

Download a text transcript of this episode via the AbilityNet website.

TSP7 George Rhodes and Abi James on public sector compliance

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 09:00:00 +0000

Today's Procast extra includes the full-length interviews with George Rhodes (now of the Home Office) speaking to AbilityNet's Annie Mannion, as well as Robin Christopherson's chat with Accessibility Consultant Abi James of AbilityNet. They're discussing all-important aspects of those pesky public sector regulations that are making so many people sit up and take notice of digital inclusion (finally) - and both will be there to bring their expertise to bear at TechShare Pro.

Download the text transcript of George Rhodes's interview via the AbilityNet website.

Download the text transcript of Abi James's interview via the AbilityNet website.

TSP6 Simon Tew on Control 1 and Kush Kanodia on social entrepreneurship

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 09:00:00 +0000

First Simon Tew of Digit Music explains to Robin Christopherson all about its fantastic system for composing music using an adapted wheelchair controller, and then AbilityNet's Sarah Botterill talks to AbilityNet trustee and social entrepreneur; Kush Kanodia, about his passion for assistive technology and his work with the Global Disability Innovation Hub.

Download a text transcript of Simon's interview via the AbilityNet website.

Download a text transcript of Kush's interview via the AbilityNet website.

TSP Day 2

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 09:00:00 +0000

Hey there, it's Day 2 of TechShare Pro and the event's going really well. Here's the live feed to watch everything that's going on so please do join us. We'll be busy catching lots of interviews and audio to bring to you in the next main procast landing probably Tuesday or Wednesday next week. In the meantime, tomorrow and Monday we will drop another couple of full-length interview extra episodes. Thanks guys and please do keep listening and interacting with #TechSharePro2019.

TSP Day 1

Wed, 20 Nov 2019 09:00:00 +0000

No full-length interviews today as it's Day 1 of TechShare Pro so we're going to bring you something special. Click on this live feed link and you can watch all of today's proceedings live On Youtube and we'll do the same tomorrow. On Friday normal business will resume. Don't forget that you can interact on the Twitters with #TechSharePro2019.

TSP5 Christopher Patnoe on Google accessibility projects

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 15:00:00 +0000

In today's extra episode Christopher Patnoe, Head of Accessibility Programs at Google, discusses its focus on accessibility - including Live Transcribe, Sound Amplifier, Project Euphonia and checking for accessibility in Android using Accessibility Scanner. Also, it's early days for gesture recognition for signers.

Download a text transcript of Christopher's interview via the AbilityNet website.

TSP4 Eleanor Southwood and Malin Rygg on carrots and sticks

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 17:04:33 +0000

Today's extra includes a brief chat with RNIB chair, Eleanor Southwood (who is also chairing the panel on Accessibility Carrots and Sticks). She discusses the RNIB's focus on end user experience to inform what they do, as well as the need to help people with a vision impairment be confident with emerging tech. That's followed by a really interesting interview I had with Malin Rygg, Head of Authority for Universal Design of ICT for the Norwegian government (also on this panel), who outlined how they very effectively enforce the law on website accessibility the Norway way.

Download a text transcript of Eleanor Southwood's interview via the AbilityNet website.

Download a text transcript of Malin Rygg's interview via the AbilityNet website.

TSP3 Paul Smyth on accessibility leadership within Barclays

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 17:13:46 +0000

In this TechShare Procast extra we hear from Paul Smyth who heads up accessibility within Barclays. Robin Christopherson discusses all things best practice when it comes to digital inclusion and how they do it the Barclays way.

Download a text transcript of the interview via the AbilityNet website.

TSP2 - Jenny Lay-Flurrie on accessibility leadership within Microsoft

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 16:40:48 +0000

In this TechShare Procast extra we hear from Microsoft's Chief Accessibility Officer, Jenny Lay-Flurrie, who talks with AbilityNet's Mark Walker about all things digital and diversity within Microsoft. Jenny will be keynoting with a short video presentation at the event - the audio of which we'll be bringing you in our next full procast.

Download a text transcript of this interview via the AbilityNet website.

TSP1 - The Pre-Event Show

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 18:41:32 +0000

In this first episode of the new AbilityNet TechShare Procast, hosts Steven Scott and Robin Christopherson cram in all of the following audio-interview goodness:

AbilityNet's Mark Walker chats about the big names to see at TechShare Pro, including Microsoft's Chief Accessibility Officer, Jenny Lay Flurrie, who meets with Mark to discuss 'the secret sauce for achieving accessibility'.
Paul Smyth, Head of Digital Accessibility at Barclays, discusses championing accessibility the Barclays way, while Christopher Patnoe chats to AbilityNet's Annie Mannion about Google's accessibility projects over the past year - including Sound Amplifier, Live Transcribe and Project Euphonia.
We deliver the headline findings of George Rhodes’ research into the state of Accessibility in the public sector, and AbilityNet's Abi James provides the lowdown on public sector digital accessibility regulations and the current digital landscape.
Finally, Simon Tew of Digit Music shares their brilliant adaptive controller for music composition - really groovy tech to help disabled users become potential pop stars.
All this and more in this pre-TechShare Pro bonanza - plus lots of bonus content dropping later this week. Make sure you subscribe so as not to miss out and please tell your colleagues and friends using #TechSharePro2019. You can also contact the show via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.

Download a transcript of the podcast from the AbilityNet website.

The new TechShare Procast - coming soon

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 15:56:44 +0000

Coming soon to a feed near you, a brand new podcast bringing you everything that's hot both before and after the TechShare Pro 2019 event in London on 20 and 21 November. Don't have a ticket? Don't worry. We'll make sure you don't miss out. Follow us on Twitter with #TechSharePro2019 and get in touch via enquiries@abilitynet.org.uk with feedback, questions and comments.