Aims and likely Cross Border benefits of the project:The aim of the project is to adapt and localise for the Republic of Ireland, the Independent Travel Training Programme training materials and tools.

The New Horizons Partnership has developed a comprehensive set of training tools and materials for the delivery of a training programme promoting independent travel among organisations that cater for people with learning disabilities. However these tools and materials have specifically designed for the UK and Northern Ireland transport system – they show pictures of Ulster bus, local road-signs etc. New Horizons have now partnered with the Cleary Centre with the view to adapting these tools and materials for the Republic of Ireland market. They will also explore and develop accreditation with FETAC for the programme in the ROI.

The project will involve working with the Cleary Centre to identify the differences between the difficulties encountered by people with disabilities in the ROI as compared to NI. The partners will then consult with Public Transport Authorities and Road Authorities in The Republic of Ireland and work with multimedia specialists to design graphics, sounds, and support material that specifically addresses these issues. Existing training material will be adapted to meet these requirements and to reflect the transport infrastructure in the Republic of Ireland.

Project Objectives:

  • New Horizons Programme will complete a detailed analysis of the original independent travel package (in conjunction with the Cleary Centre) with a view to identifying differences with regard to transport infrastructure
  • To seek technical advice from appropriate parties in relation to road signs, road structures and public telephones, and consequently,
  • To prepare a detailed specification of development specifications of development requirements
  • To formulate a first draft approval by all parties (including a test pilot with trainees)
  • To liase with multi-media developers and avail of their expertise in the production of a finished resource
  • To explore and develop accreditation with Fetac for the programme