For individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, building independence is a deeply personal journey that requires consistency, confidence, and the right kind of support at the right time. Existing systems and tools show limitations in accounting for the unique pace and preferences of them, making it difficult to practice everyday skills in a meaningful and sustainable way. This project is focused on understanding how technology can genuinely serve this cohort by placing their wellbeing at the centre of every design decision, providing clear, structured and visual guidance through the tasks and routines of daily life, and ensuring that help is available when it is needed most. More than anything, the ambition is to empower them: offering greater independence, confidence, and autonomy in everyday life through tools that are accessible, personalised, and responsive to their needs.

Importantly, empowerment extends beyond the individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. When the right support tools are in place, the entire ecosystem benefits – including carers, support workers, families, and their employers.  Technology designed around the unique needs of these individuals can strengthen the broader care environment by enabling more personalised and coordinated support, improving service delivery, and supporting more meaningful engagement in daily life. This research is evolving, shaped by real-world collaboration with industry partners and participants, but the intent is clear – to design technology that create positive and lasting outcomes not only for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, but also for the wider community that supports and works alongside them.