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Disability World: Be an ‘appy JAMmer

08 February 2017

 

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Individuals with learning disabilities can ask people to be more patient with them by using a new phone app.

The Now Group, a Belfast social enterprise which supports people with learning disabilities and autism has launched the JAM (Just a minute) Card. It shows a pot of jam and the words ‘Just a minute’ on one side and ‘Please be patient. I have a communication barrier’ on the reverse.

It began as a plastic card, credit-card sized, to slip easily into wallets and purses, but has now been developed into a digital app which can be downloaded free from the Google Play store and the Apple App store.

The JAM Card was developed after people with learning disabilities said they often felt under pressure while shopping or using transport. Handing over the card, or showing their phones is a discreet way of letting people know they need extra time.

The Now Group won funding from the Big Lottery Fund and the Nominet Trust to develop the idea and in its next stage of development users will be able to give companies a disability rating, which will promote businesses that are accessible to all.

Users are reported to feel more confident about using taxis alone or using public transport because they can show the driver their JAM Card and get the extra time they need to pay their fare or buy their ticket.

Jayne McStay of the Now Group said: “So far the Jam Card has impacted hundreds of lives throughout Northern Ireland and our hope is that with the digital innovation of the app, this will increase to thousands of people.”

If you would like a JAM Card, call the NOW Group on 02890 436400.

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Pirkei Avos
“The world stands on three things: Torah, the service of G-d, and deeds of kindness.” Kisharon looks at the person not the disability, teaching Torah, Middos and Mitzvot embracing and cherishing everybody’s special talent and bringing out the best in them.