“I Feel Proud That with This App We Can Help Other People with Intellectual Disabilities”: The Role of an Expert by Experience Digital Inclusion Citizen Advisory Panel

Despite legislation affirming the rights of people with intellectual disabilities to take equal part in society, marginalization persists. Accessibility needs can impact this group’s ability to engage in the digital society and in aspects of daily living, such as employment and socializing. The Digi-ID PLUS study was established with a team of seven people with an intellectual disability. Team members were hired as a diverse group to give insight into their lived experiences in reviewing and validating research findings. Their insights were key to every aspect of Digi-ID PLUS. It has been recognized that user-centered design enhances technology development and accessibility; therefore, the aim of establishing a Citizen Advisory Panel (CAP) in our program design and delivery is to include the critical role of users by experience to review, validate and test our solution to enhance the accessibility of all aspects of the program. Working with Digi-ID PLUS, the CAP spoke of the impact being paid team members had on their lives. Analysis of insights shared indicated that being a part of the team had a positive impact on their self-image confidence and digital skills acquisition CAP members discussed the importance of supporting each other and the value of being paid for their insights.