NIHR Assistive Technology Research and Development Work: 2024 to 2025 Dataset

Assistive technology research and development: annual statutory report on government-funded research to improve the lives of disabled and older people. This data supports the most recent published report (2024-2025) from the Department of Health and Social Care’s Parliamentary report collection. The funding data from last year's report, and all preceding (historical) reports, can be found in the attachments at the bottom of this page, along with the reporting criteria and the print and accessible versions of the current report. The current research for 2024-25 can be found on the table tab and includes AT focus areas, which can be browsed using the filter function on the left, as well as project details and links to the original research pages (where available). Some projects cover more than one focus area. Every year the focus areas are reviewed and updated to highlight the areas of research relevant to this report and there are currently have the following areas: ● Hearing impairment ● Prosthetics and Orthotics ● Wearable Devices ● Neurological and Cognitive Health ● Vision Impairment ● Communication and Speech ● Robotics ● Exercise and Rehabilitation ● Inclusivity and Accessibility ● Adaptive and Smart Homes ● Game-Based Training ● Learning Disabilities and Neurodiversity ● Mental and Social Health ● Mobility and Musculoskeletal Health ● Breathing and Sleep ● Carer and Support Training This dataset is intended to serve as supplementary material to the full statutory report. While the data table allows the exploration of individual projects and focus areas, the full report provides the vital analysis, context, and key findings necessary to fully understand the impact of AT research. Access to the full report is encouraged to gain a complete picture of the advancements in assistive technology research and their strategic importance to the UK’s future health and social care landscape. This year's report focuses on the core shifts in assistive technology research and the UK’s health plan, highlighting the government’s vision to provide better care in people’s own homes or closer to their communities and to address unmet healthcare needs. The full report provides essential context of how AT research is contributing to this vision, particularly in fostering more inclusive employment practices, improving travel and public infrastructure, and creating more inclusive experiences in venues such as cinemas and museums. The focus on inclusive practices is a key theme for this year's publication. The projects detailed in this dataset are the foundation of this progress, promoting a truly inclusive society that helps foster accessibility and independence for disabled and older people.