Browsealoud gives Wicklow.ie a Voice

Wicklow County Council aims to improve and maintain the quality of life for all in County Wicklow by providing quality services, efficiently delivered, within a local democratic framework. Wicklow County Council recognise the importance of access to the web and have incorporated Browsealoud to add speech to their website to address the needs of their citizens, businesses and visitors.

Browsealoud, an innovative software solution from Texthelp Systems works by speaking website content aloud and highlighting each word as it is spoken. This unique functionality improves reading comprehension and assists learning abilities. Browsealoud improves web access for those with dyslexia, literacy difficulties, mild visual impairments and those for whom English is a second language.

Mary DeCourcy, Webmaster states “Wicklow County Council is committed to making their services and information accessible to people of all ages and abilities especially through our website Wicklow.ie.

We are constantly updating our website to make it more user friendly and accessible.  Recently, we became aware of the Browsealoud software. One click enables the user to download a free plug-in, thus enabling delivery of information in an audio format to a broader user base.”

The Browsealoud service is free of charge to users, with the cost covered by the Council.  Web visitors simply download the application once and then all websites on the Internet that are Browsealoud-friendly can be read aloud for free.

Browsealoud already works with major clients across Ireland and the UK. These include Permanent TSB, Office of the Attorney General, An Post, University of Limerick, Department of the Taoiseach, ESB, Fine Gael, Cork County Council, Donegal County Council, Tipperary Libraries among others.

For more information, please visit www.wicklow.ie  or www.browsealoud.com

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About Texthelp Systems Ltd

Texthelp Systems Ltd is the worldwide leader of literacy software solutions provided through three core business divisions: Education, Speech Services and Publishing. Texthelp has been developing assistive technology software for the learning disabled community since 1996. The aim has always been to provide the most comprehensive cutting-edge technology available to provide inclusive education.

Based in Antrim, N. Ireland and with offices in the US, Texthelp is currently experiencing a period of explosive growth.  The company has a reseller network covering over 20 countries.

Texthelp has been a Deloitte Technology Fast 50 Award winning company for seven years and won numerous product, innovation and marketing awards.