The Social Welfare Department is inviting applications for the Jockey Club IT Scheme for People with Visual Impairment and the Central Fund for Personal Computers from April 19 to May 28.

The IT scheme will support non-governmental and non-profit-making organisations providing services and schooling to people with visual impairment and tertiary institutions to acquire advanced Chinese screen readers and Braille displays to allow sufferers to use the Internet, and will subsidise the needy to buy these devices for study or work.

The items supported by the scheme are the advanced Chinese screen reader, such as Chinese JAWS or compatible devices, and Braille display of 40 cells, such as Focus 40 or PAC Mate or compatible devices.

Successful organisational applicants will be sponsored to install Chinese screen readers (maximum $9,800 per set) and Braille displays (maximum $36,000 per set). The subsidy for successful individual applicants will be up to $9,800 for a Chinese screen reader and 75% of the cost or $27,000, whichever is less, for the Braille display.

The central fund will help the disabled in acquiring the required computer facilities and in implementing their business plans or receiving supported employment services at home.

Details of the two schemes and application forms are available on the CyberAble.net and the department's website.