The project
The European PAGE project aims to promote social inclusion and innovation in the culture and publishing sectors by developing books and tools tailored to the needs of adults with intellectual disabilities and developmental disorders (IDD).
Context and challenges
There are many challenges related to cognitive accessibility for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (PIDD) in Europe:
- Lack of data: Few studies explore the participation of PWD in reading as a cultural activity, making it difficult to develop appropriate solutions. PAGE aims to include PWD in the research in order to better understand their needs.
- Almost non-existent supply of adapted books: Adults with intellectual disabilities lack books adapted to their abilities, as literature dedicated to this audience is almost non-existent. PAGE will publish a series of books in simplified language.
- Very limited participation of disabled people: Disabled people rarely access reading clubs or literary activities, which are often unsuitable for their skills. PAGE will develop inclusive activities to promote their cultural involvement.
- Insufficient digital tools: Existing e-books lack specific features, such as simplified vocabulary. PAGE will develop a dedicated application to improve comprehension and cognitive accessibility.
Objectives of the PAGE project
The PAGE project aims to remedy the lack of publications accessible to people with a mental disability by using techniques such as simplified language, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and technological innovations (interactive applications).
Strategic alignment
The project is in line with the priorities of the European Accessibility Act and the European Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2021-2030), while supporting cultural diversity and transnational innovation. It also contributes to the sustainable and inclusive development of the European publishing sector through an approach integrating accessibility, creativity and digital technology.
Project phases
The PAGE project consists of five main phases:
- Research (WP2): Identification of the accessibility needs of PWDs through focus groups and surveys involving PWDs, their families and the publishing sector. A final report will define the accessibility criteria for books, cultural activities and the PAGE application.
- Publication of accessible books (WP3): Organisation of a literary competition to publish an adapted book in each partner country, translated into the languages of the project, in order to promote inclusive literature.
- Cultural activities (WP4): Develop a toolbox for organising reading clubs and writing workshops for people with disabilities. These activities will stimulate creativity and test the accessibility of books and the PAGE application.
- Development of applications (WP5): Design an application that includes simplified vocabulary, tested and refined on the basis of feedback from the PIDD during cultural activities.
- Management and dissemination (WP1 & WP6): Overseeing the general coordination, quality assurance and dissemination of results to ensure the sustainability and impact of the project.
The PAGE project combines accessibility, creativity and digital technology to make culture accessible to all. By encouraging the active participation of ODA, PAGE contributes to the sustainable and inclusive development of the European publishing sector.
