Any old mobile phones?

[liziJ]

Hi everyone,

I hope you don't mind me asking this but I wondered if any of you have an old mobile phone that you don't use any more?

As some of you know, my son Jacob is autistic. I've just signed up for a scheme that provides iPads for young people with autism. iPads have been shown to help autistic children with communication, co-ordination and understanding the world around them, as well as tackling specific sensory difficulties. There's a great film highlighting the benefits of iPads for autistic children here:

I would love to be able to give Jacob the opportunity to learn and develop his skills via an iPad. If I can collect 165 old mobile phones and send them to the charity we've joined, the charity can use the phones for their own benefit and in return send Jacob a brand new iPad. 165 is A LOT of phones, so I'm basically asking everyone I know if they would:

1) Rummage around for any old mobiles you have lying around (it doesn't matter what condition they're in) and donate them to us if you're willing (I can PM you my address if you let me know you need it)

2) Pass this email on to your friends and family to see if they would be willing to help us too, or put a request out on your Facebook/Twitter pages

3) Ask your work/colleagues if they would be willing to set up a mobile phone collection box for Jacob

Thanks so much!

Lizi x

[glowing]

Hi Lizig.
Can't promise anything but I'll ask around. Just wondering about the idea of you approaching your local supermarket manager and asking them to put a notice about it and a box or something for collection. If you also inform your local newspaper they would do an article and the shop would get free publicity. Obviously if you are a private person you might not want publicity so it's not a good idea but I have always found local people enjoy good causes, particularly if they have an individual to help.
Glowing

[liziJ]

What a great idea! Thank you for the suggestion - will definitely ask at our local supermarket.

Lizi x

[bamber]

I haven't heard of this scheme. But I do know technology can help. My son now 17 has Aspergers syndrome and is at college. But using the computer helped when he had trouble with writing and we even had voice recognition software installed on his PC. Not sure how useful its been. The computer is great way of communicating if you have limited social skills especially as there is a delay in getting response as it gives you time to think of a response. Obviously it depends on the level of difficulties the person encounters and development. Andy had little speech at age 6 - but he has improved rapidly since then. But still has a lot of support needs.

I hope you can find the best support and tools for him.

[bamber]

Watching your little utube klip - just shows how far things have come in last few years. Inspiring stuff.