The Independent Living Centre WA received funding through the Non-Government Centres Support to develop a resource manual with the aim of assisting students to identify suitable assistive technology in order to increase independence in performing the activities of cooking, eating and drinking. Funding was also obtained to update the centre’s kitchen display equipment, as well as to purchase the same equipment for students to hire. Therapy organisations and schools were consulted to determine the information that was required for the manual, as well as to ascertain what types of equipment were particularly lacking for students to utilise both at school and at home. After researching equipment at kitchen shops, websites and “independent living suppliers”, a hire kit was developed. This equipment will be available exclusively to students from Years 1–13. It includes items ranging from everyday gadgets like easy to operate can openers and built up cutlery, to specialised cups and plates and multi purpose electrical equipment. Through this project, the Independent Living Centre WA is confident that students will have greater access to trialling appropriate equipment to improve their outcomes with cooking, eating and drinking tasks.

Jenny Bishop is an Occupational Therapist who has over 10 years experience in the disability and aged care sector. She has worked at the Independent Living Centre for over 4 years within the Assistive Equipment Service to support people with disabilities, carers, teachers and therapists with their choice of assistive technology.