People Potential is an organization with a special emphasis on people as the most valuable resource in developing solutions on a sustainable basis. It follows on the work started at HEARU by Dr Cynthia White and Don Caston. HEARU was a unit in London Guildhall University providing training in appropriate disability research and training in disability design but was closed with other university cuts in 1994.
People Potential was started in 1995 as is run from Hampshire, UK.
People are trained to help them and organizations to develop and use their potential in practical work through research, knowledge and practical work to develop skills. The specialist areas of work are in appropriate disability design, particularly in assistive furniture and every-day living devices, making educational aids and toys and training in creative crafts, encouraging people's confidence and creativity. This is done in the context of the situation using materials available and affordable to the people involved.
The aim is to run practical training in conjunction with individuals or organizations concerned with development of designing and manufacturing abilities at individual and community level. Research into the effectiveness of designs, local materials and training, preparation of publications and working for short periods alongside community members and professionals is included in this aim.
Short courses in UK Practical training can be tailored to the needs of the individual and other short courses can be arranged.
'Hands On’ Overseas Support Work
People Potential has a wealth of experience and knowledge in the practical matters of designing and manufacture of toys and equipment at community level. This can be effectively shared by working alongside staff in the field on a temporary basis. (Note: - independent funding will be required for travel and fees. People Potential is not a funding agent)
Further information from:
J. Westmacott. People Potential, Plum Cottage Hattingley Road, Medstead, Alton, Hampshire GU34 5NQ, United Kingdom.
Tel/manual fax: 00 44 (0) 1420 563 741
E-mail: PeoplePotential@tiscali.co.uk