creATe - Assistive Technology programme to support brain injury survivors.

What is creATe?
creATe is Acquired Brain Injury Ireland’s national Assistive Technology (AT) programme. It’s clinically led and designed to empower brain injury survivors to live more independently by integrating AT into their daily lives and rehabilitation journeys.

Why it matters
After a brain injury, survivors often face isolation, communication challenges, and reduced independence. Many everyday tasks become difficult—like keeping up with WhatsApp messages, managing household routines, or accessing online services. creATe bridges this gap.

Through creATe, survivors are supported to use technologies such as:

• Voice-activated assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Nest)

• Screen readers and accessible apps

• Smart home tools (e.g., video doorbells, smart plugs)

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices

These tools help individuals stay connected, communicate effectively, and participate more fully in their communities.

How it works

• Personalised Approach: Every participant receives an individualised AT assessment and support plan tailored to their rehabilitation goals.

• Expert Team: Our multidisciplinary team includes Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists, and Rehabilitation Assistants.

• Collaborative Delivery: We work closely with family members, carers, and community therapists to embed AT into everyday routines.

• Flexible & Scalable: creATe is available across Acquired Brain Injury Ireland’s Clubhouses, residential homes, and in the community.

Funding

• creATe was funded by the HSE’s CREATE grant from 2022 to 2024.

• We are currently awaiting the outcome of a Rethink Ireland grant application, which would support the programme until the end of 2025.

• At the same time, we are actively seeking a sustainable, longer-term funding solution to secure the programme for the next three years.

Proven Impact & Recognition

• creATe has been showcased to the World Health Organization, HSE, and the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.

• Survivors report improved confidence, independence, and quality of life.

A survivor recently shared: “Being able to use my voice to turn on the lights and check the bus times makes me feel like I’ve got control back.”