The Access Foundation has awarded £8,528 to Live! in Chester to purchase 16 new iPads and a secure charging and storage cabinet

This new equipment will support daily sessions across the charity's many projects, offering tailored digital learning, access to assistive technology and creative opportunities such as photography, film making and digital songwriting. 

Live!, based in Chester, is an independent charity providing inclusive clubs and social activities for more than 200 disabled people of all ages. Through a wide range of programmes, the charity helps people build confidence, develop new skills, and improve health and wellbeing — all within a safe and welcoming environment. 

For many of the Live! members, access to technology is life changing. It reduces barriers, opens new opportunities for learning and employment, and helps people connect with friends, family and their wider community.

The new iPads will be used in projects ranging from employability training to arts and fitness activities, ensuring that digital access is fully integrated across the charity's work. 

The grant will benefit around 200 people each year, helping participants gain digital confidence, independence, and new skills. For some, it will mean being able to communicate more easily, access online opportunities, and feel more included in everyday life. 

One member explained, "Before, I found it is hard to join in with anything online. Having access to the right technology means I can finally keep up, stay connected and learn new things."