The overarching aim of The Professional Association of Assistive Technologists (PAAT) is to improve Assistive Technology (AT) as a discipline. This will result in improved quality, standards, opportunities and impact for AT users, AT practitioners and leaders in the field.
The specific aims of PAAT are:
- Improved quality of provision for AT users and their advocates
- Improved professional status
- Independence and integrity of the Assistive Technologist role
- Improved professional training routes
- Standardisation of employment terms and conditions
- Maintained standards through adherence to a professional code of conduct and CPD
- Opportunities for peer support as part of a professional community
- Enhanced confidence about the quality of AT services provided
- Acceptance by commissioners and regulators for the inclusion of AT services as core to service delivery.
PAAT does not look to replace any existing Professional Bodies in the education, health or social care field. PAAT is a place for AT professionals who don't already have a professional 'home'. We will work with and alongside other professional membership bodies. Assistive Technologists frequently work as part of a multi-disciplinary team and PAAT intends to do the same.