SpecialEffect enable people with severe physical disabilities to use technology for communication and leisure - playing video games when they otherwise wouldn't be able to - using whichever part(s)of their body that work best - chin, foot, finger, toe, eyes, knee or head control; they’ll find a way. It’s so important that everyone can join in with family & friends, to be included and not left out. All too often disability leaves a person isolated.

SpecialEffect assess a person's needs and adapt technology to harness whatever controlled movement they have, and create bespoke gaming setups to enable them to play to the best of their abilities. Being included hugely benefits mental wellbeing and quality of life – bringing much needed independence, fun and escapism. Their support is completely free of charge and is for life, particularly important for when things change and need to be adapted (such as a progressive condition like muscular dystrophy or spinal muscular atrophy where muscles/abilities weaken over time. Or when a new game or console comes out!).

They specialise in Eye Control Technology. Imagine: You wake up after an accident. You are paralysed and can’t move anything except your eyes. And you can’t speak. Through eye-movement alone, they help people operate a computer for vital communication and to regain a little independence - giving them a voice when they don’t have one of their own. Because they don’t charge a penny for their services, they rely on & are indebted to wonderful supporters and fundraising events.

Tom, a young gamer, wrote simply: ‘Thank you for giving me my life back.’

Some videos showing their work in action:

Mike: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZkqmTj2ykWU

Bethany: https://youtu.be/Ahx1i0MAIhw

Rodney: https://youtu.be/lmvTRH7dHYM

Tiago: https://youtu.be/IUNclXvisEM

Bex: https://youtu.be/GA-Tkp6I0-Q

Explainer of what their therapists do: https://youtu.be/0PEXx9gO0gw

A short explainer of the charity's work in general:

90 sec montage of smiles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6XEMvMh7VTM

Gaming has provided so much fun, happiness and getting to experience some incredible moments. Gaming is one of my favourite forms of storytelling, I'd love to help as many people as possible get to experience it as well. Join me in helping raise money in aid of SpecialEffect's incredible work and let's make gaming accessible to as many as possible!

Charity 2 of 2 picked for twitch.tv/CasTheLilGhostie Spring Fundraiser

Running 09/03/25 - 31/05/25