The project

The European PAGE project aims to promote social inclusion and innovation in the cultural and publishing sectors by developing books and tools tailored to the needs of adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD).

Background and Challenges

Challenges related to cognitive accessibility for people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (PIDD) in Europe are numerous:

  1. Lack of data: Few studies explore PIDD’s participation in reading as a cultural activity, making it difficult to create suitable solutions. PAGE aims to include PIDD in research to better understand their needs.
  2. Almost Non-Existent Offer of Adapted Books: Adults with PIDD lack books tailored to their abilities, as literature dedicated to this audience is nearly unavailable. PAGE will publish a series of books in simplified language.
  3. Very limited participation of PIDD: PIDD rarely access book clubs or literary activities, which are often unsuitable for their competencies. PAGE will develop inclusive activities to promote their cultural involvement.
  4. Insufficient digital tools: Existing digital books lack specific features, such as simplified language vocabulary. PAGE will develop a dedicated application to enhance comprehension and cognitive accessibility.

Objectives of the PAGE Project

The PAGE project aims to address the lack of accessible publications for PIDD using techniques such as simplified language, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), and technological innovations (interactive applications).

Strategic Alignment

The project aligns with the priorities of the European Accessibility Act and the European Strategy on 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:

  1. Research (WP2): Identifying PIDD accessibility needs through focus groups and surveys involving PIDD, their families, and the publishing sector. A final report will define the criteria for accessible books, cultural activities, and the PAGE app.
  2. Publishing accessible books (WP3): Organizing a literary contest to publish one adapted book in each partner country, translated into the project languages, to promote inclusive literature.
  3. Cultural activities (WP4): Develop a toolkit to organize book clubs and writing workshops for PIDD. These activities will stimulate creativity and test the accessibility of books and the PAGE app.
  4. Application development (WP5): Design an app that includes a simplified language vocabulary, tested and refined based on feedback from PIDD during cultural activities.
  5. Management and dissemination (WP1 & WP6): Oversee overall coordination, quality assurance, and dissemination of results to ensure the project’s sustainability and impact.

The PAGE project combines accessibility, creativity, and digital technology to make culture accessible to all. By encouraging active participation from PIDD, PAGE contributes to the sustainable and inclusive development of the European publishing sector.

Would you like to learn more about the PAGE project or find out how to participate in its activities? Contact us!