New website brings Independent Living to more disabled people in Dundee and Angus

A new website has been launched to help disabled people in Dundee and Angus live independently.

The www.ilda.scot website was produced for the Dundee & Angus Independent Living Centre and features specially adapted kitchen tools, level access showers, adjustable beds, a stairlift and other equipment to help people live independently.

Cllr Ken Lynn, chair of Dundee’s Health & Social Care Partnership, said: “The Independent Living Centre lends out thousands of items of equipment and provides expert advice. People with disabilities can visit and try things out before deciding what’s right for them.

“This website will help us reach out to carers, health professionals and disabled people who may not be able to make the trip to the Centre. There’s a lot of help on offer and people need to know about it.”

The Centre is shared with Angus Health & Social Care Partnership, whose Integration Joint Board is chaired by Hugh Robertson.

Mr Robertson said: “The use of technology in supporting care is particularly helpful in rural communities where access can be challenging. This new website opens up the exhibition area at the Independent Living Centre to many more people. The equipment in the Centre can make a real practical difference to people’s lives.”

The new site includes sections on Eating, Washing, Sleeping, Mobility, Enjoying Life, Community Alarms, and Sight and Hearing. There are links to many other local and national sites carrying useful advice and information, including Independent Living Angus and Dundee’s My Life. The Get Assessed page includes a form which people can fill in online.

Cllr Lynn said: “We produced this site in partnership with Dundee Voluntary Action, and we have had help from the Dundee Dragons Wheelchair Sports Club, Dundee Independent Advocacy Service and staff in the Independent Living Centre itself.

“We’re hoping to add more pages soon, and DVA will be looking for comments and suggestions for improvement.”

Designed and built by local companies Creative Orange and Broxden, the website is at www.ilda.scot.

The Centre itself is managed in partnership with NHS Tayside and the Angus and Dundee Health & Social Care Partnerships. It is based in Charles Bowman Avenue. Opening hours are 9-5, Monday to Friday.