Steve Martin Associates

As an Occupational Therapist (OT), Luke Thompson has 9 years of clinical experience specialising in Neuro-disabilities and Assistive Technology (AT).

Luke most recently worked at Pace, Aylesbury (a special school and support hub for disabled children), where he established and led the Assistive Technology service. During his OT training he worked with adults and the elderly, gaining experience on neurorehabilitation and orthopaedics wards and a mental health inpatient unit. 

Prior to qualifying, he worked at a residential care home supporting adults with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) and as a private carer for an adult with dementia.

Whilst his most recent roles have been with younger people his training and broader experience combined with his interest in AT provides him with the skills to report on the technology needs of people at any stage of life. His areas of expertise include:

He is the creator of the Seven Stages of Switch Development and the Switch Heroes book series, invented the patented Power Wheelchair Simulator, and is co-creator of the Pace MyWay app. He has also partnered with Imperial College London to develop solutions for people with disabilities. Additionally, he has served as a clinical consultant for Enayball and on advisory boards for Gripable and Motion UK. He was the business lead for the Royal College of Occupational Therapists special interest group for Children, Young People, and Families, and on the board for the London AAC Clinical Excellence Network. Internationally he supports disabled children in China working with International China Concern.

Luke has presented at conferences, including ATIA, TechAbility, London AAC CEN, and Communication Matters. He has published articles in OT News and the Communication Matters Journal.

Luke is registered with the HCPC and is a member of the RCOT.

In line with all SMA experts, Luke holds an Enhanced Disclosure Certificate from the Disclosure and Barring Service. He is also working towards the Bond Solon/Cardiff University Expert Witness Certificate.

Luke Thompson @

     •     Augmentative and Alternative Communication Aids (AAC)

     •     Environmental controls and home adaptations: automated

          doors/windows, lights

     •     Wheelchairs, control and navigation systems

     •     Alternative computer and mobile phone access methods: switches, eye

          gaze, specialist joysticks, and keyboards

     •     Daily living aids: dressing aids, adapted cutlery, personal care aids,

          writing tools

     •     Posture management: seating systems, sleep systems