A list of the most Frequently Asked Questions, please use the contact us link if you need more information.

What is bespoken?

bespoken is a social media site designed to improve the everyday lives of disabled people of all ages through sharing information and answering questions relating to independent living equipment. This ranges from simple devices like jar openers, mobility equipment like wheelchairs and scooters to assistive technology like iPads and specialist adaptive equipment like communication and automation devices.

We know that there is a great wealth of knowledge out there and as a community we want to capture that knowledge and help other disabled people as a result. By sharing information, reviewing products and suggesting ideas for new ones the community can make a real difference in people lives and improve their independence.

What are forums?

Forums are places on the site where you can share information, ask questions, get advice or tell us about an idea or a product you really like.

The site is broken down into specific forums to make it easier to find what you're looking for. To view the full list, click on the 'Forums' button in the options along the top of the page.

We also have a section dedicated to Blackwood's integrated digital care system called CleverCogs™.

How to post stuff?

Firstly, you must be a member to post or comment if you’re not already a member then click here to sign up. We need a few details or you can sign in using your Facebook or twitter account if you prefer.

Once you have signed in simply go to the forum you want to start a discussion in and click on the add button or if you want to reply to an existing discussion simply type your reply in the text box below the ‘reply to this’ button in the relevant discussion. You may need to scroll down the page a bit on popular topics. We have created a simple guide which, is available here with screenshots to guide you through the process.

How does the Blackwood Design Awards work?

We created the Blackwood Design Awards to give budding designers, engineers and inventors a chance to get the deserved recognition for their products and the support to take it further. 

The Blackwood Design Awards are open to everyone, from gifted amateurs to seasoned academics. For full details on the entry requirements please click here to view the 2017/18 competition.

How can I get involved in bespoken?

We have a number of volunteering opportunities which, you can do from anywhere with access to the Internet. We are looking for people to add to our blogs and highlight new technology. If you are passionate about people and their stories then why not write for us? You can contribute as little or as often as you like there are no commitments and because the site is accesible 24/7 you can contribute whenever suits you.

Can I share stuff with my friends and networks?

Yes, we have included all the popular social share buttons on all our forums so you can like and comment on facebook, twitter or Google+. Please feel free to share content on your blogs and newsletter but we ask that you credit bespoken with the post and add a link to our site http://www.bespoken.me

Who runs bespoken?

bespoken is run by the charity Blackwood Homes and Care which supports people who have disabilities to live life to the full. Blackwood is a Scotland wide organisation providing social housing for rent and care and support services particularly for those with disabilities. Blackwood has over 1,500 rented homes for tenants across 29 Scottish local authority areas. Blackwood also runs four dedicated care homes in Aberdeen, Glasgow, Greenock and Stirling.