Persons with disabilities are still today subjected to unfair discrimination, isolation and marginalisation in all spheres of their lives. This is due to negative attitudes and perceptions which continue to be the biggest barriers facing persons with disabilities. These barriers generally stem from a place of ignorance and not a spirit of spite or malice. It is human nature to fear the unknown and thus by confronting the unknown, we can begin to positively change attitudes and mindsets and to break down the walls of uncertainty.
Society is largely uneducated about the rights, needs and abilities of persons with disabilities and it is only through education and awareness that persons with disabilities will be able to fully contribute socially, politically and economically to society and to take their place as equal citizens.
It is for these reasons that we decided to develop a series of programmes entitled "The Heart of Disability". Through these programmes, we are seeking to educate and empower both able-bodied persons and persons with disabilities, to better understand the rights, needs and abilities that persons with disabilities possess, so as to enable their full integration into the mainstream of society.
We offer various sensitisation programmes specifically tailored for our clients requirements. Our three main programmes are:
- Managing Disability In The Workplace (1hr 30min)
- - includes Employment Video (20mins) & Feedback Session (10mins)
- - topics include: Legislation; Reasonable Accomodation; Recruitment Process; Disability Definitions, Types and Criteria.
- Disability Etiquette (1hr)
- - includes Accomodating Deaf / Hard of Hearing Persons Video (20mins)
- - topics include: Practical tips on Accomodating Persons with Disabilities, Do's and Don'ts, Acceptable Terminology.
- Accessibility (30mins)
- - topics include: Legislation & Important Documentation, Building Regulations, Universal Design, Accessibility Test.
These programmes can be considered guidelines as we generally tend to develop a custom programme for each client after establishing their requirements.
Accessibility involves more than just physical access to buildings. It includes facilities, information, services, transport, communication and more. To employ a person with a disability you first need to provide an accessible working environment.
Our trained assessors conduct Accessibility Assessments based on their personal experience and extensive knowledge of disability matters. Clients are provided with a detailed report containing recommendations in line with National Building and SABS Regulations. Follow up visits are conducted to ensure the report findings are successfully implemented. Given our vast knowledge on accessibility matters, we consult with stakeholders in all sectors from architects right down to individuals to ensure that the legislated standards are upheld.
For more information, contact our Accessibility & Sensitisation Manager, Brett Marshall at brett.marshall@apdnmb.org.za