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Our Products
We have an extensive range of assistive learning technology, each packed with features catering to specific literary and educational needs.
Neurodiversity in Prisons
Prison education and support services are in a state of change where learning difficulties, such as dyslexia or other neurodiverse needs, are starting to be identified. As a result, the number of inmates with special educational needs is becoming better understood. Ongoing research indicates that 60% of inmates have weak literacy skills, 20% potentially being functionally illiterate. Aiding Prisoner Rehabilitation
A landmark independent review by Dame Sally Coates of education in prison in 2016 made the case for putting education at the very heart of the prison regime. In March 2022, a further report we carried out with Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Prisons (HMIP) and Ofsted was completed, which reviewed reading education in prisons.
The new report sets out how low reading levels limit a prisoner's ability to navigate life in prison, and beyond. Prisoners may struggle to access written information, leaving them vulnerable and at risk of becoming isolated. They may also be prevented from fully participating in purposeful activity. If they leave prison without the necessary employment skills, they may be less likely to get into work and even reoffend.
Here at Scanning Pens, we have found the potential of our assistive technology in supporting reading independence and ensuring quality in the access to education, therefore aiding rehabilitation. Ensuring Safety and Security
It was important to provide the relevant evidence that our pens were safe to use within the prison environment. Standard fire risk assessments were carried out by the CQC, along with necessary security measures to ensure compliance. A fire health and safety document was created, which outlines everything in more detail.
Key points: - The ReaderPen Secure cannot back charge mobile phones
- The ReaderPen Secure does not have removable batteries
- The ReaderPen Secure does not use WiFi
- The ReaderPen Secure does not have built in memory or storage
Introducing ReaderPen Secure™ to Prisoners
Our prison research projects started in 2017 when we realised many inmates had neurodiverse learning differences and struggled with basic literacy. Our studies helped us to understand how reading pens could help individuals be less vulnerable and better equipped to learn Our research proved the concept of valuable support for reading in education centres. In July 2020, the first prisoner was given permission to use a personal ReaderPen Secure™ in his cell. This was a landmark decision towards equity of access to written materials and an important milestone during COVID lockdowns, where support for reading was not readily available. Our research continues both in the UK and internationally to identify the impact ReaderPen Secure™ has on individual rehabilitation and reduction of recidivism. The ReaderPen Secure™ is the world’s first assistive reading tool to support GDPR compliance, with the unique function of having no storage or memory functions, designed with security in mind. Users can have multiple lines of text read aloud thanks to text to speech technology, allowing them to read or study independently and confidently. CPD Accreditation
If you’re interested in becoming CPD accredited, we have a range of modules on hand to provide the necessary tools to help improve literacy access for those with specific educational needs. We provide short, intensive, practical and CPD accredited professional development over a period of time.
What is the benefit of CPD accreditation?
By being CPD accredited, you can strengthen your Scanning Pens implementation strategy and toolkit approach to literacy support, create a tighter alignment to Ofsted requirements and promote inclusivity. Nurturing Neurodiversity
The journey doesn’t stop after you’ve purchased our pens. We have a wide range of helpful literature and other resources to help ensure the implementation of our pens will be easy for both the staff and prisoners alike. There’s also a range of tips and videos to ensure they are getting the most out of the pen.
To support your implementation of the ReaderPen Secure, you will receive: - Implementation handbook and ideas
- Hints and Tips cards for staff
- Access to our quarterly newsletter
You will also gain access to our Business Development Manager for Adult and Vulnerable Learners, Hayley Dall-Smith, who can help with any additional questions or support you may require. Download
Implementation Guide Additional
Resources
Ali’s Story
Foreign National Learner, Ali, shows how he uses the ExamReader™ to support his studies. Turkish is his first language and describes the ExamReader™ as his “Magic Pen” as it enables him to read and decode the words he is learning.
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