George had been working in retail in Victoria and was looking forward to starting a second job, a work from home position as an accessibility tester for digital products. But he needed the right equipment to start his new job.

He has Tourette Syndrome, with a frequent motor tic and a stutter when he speaks. In particular, he has difficulty using a computer with a keyboard due to his motor tic.

His WorkBC job coach referred him to the WorkBC Assistive Technology Services program.

Through WorkBC Assistive Technology Services, George received Dragon Naturally Speaking and a headset so that he could dictate into his computer instead of having to type. He is able to mute himself using an inline headset control while he is stuttering.

He also received training for Dragon Naturally Speaking from WorkBC Assistive Technology Services staff.

“It helped me greatly because without the program and knowing how to use it, I am just not eligible to do the job,” he says. “Getting the equipment itself definitely helped me start and maintain the job, and I enjoy the work, so definitely a plus for me.”

George says he would “definitely” recommend WorkBC Assistive Technology Services to others in need.

“[WorkBC Assistive Technology Services] helped me in terms of the career aspects of my life, and I appreciate that, and wanted to say thank you.”

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WorkBC Assistive Technology Services is operated by Neil Squire. Assistive Technology Services are available to individuals who have a work-related barrier due to a disability or a functional limitation. This may include barriers related to traveling to and from the workplace.

Questions about WorkBC Assistive Technology Services? Need help applying? Contact us: 1-844-453-5506 or info-ats@workbc.ca

Please visit www.workbc-ats.ca for more information about WorkBC Assistive Technology Services.

Tags: assistive technology, BC, WorkBC Assistive Technology Services