Latest Headlines

Accessible Polling Stations

Currently, no AODA standards require provincial or municipal elections in Ontario to be accessible. However, the Third Review of the AODA recommends the creation of standards mandating accessibility in politics and elections. In this article, we will outline the need for accessible polling stations.

Accessible Polling Stations

Every person in Ontario should be able to enter and move through their local polling station independently. Therefore, all venues that the government uses as a polling station during an election should be fully physically accessible. For instance, every location where voting takes place should have:

Accessible Polling Stations. Read full article.

AODA Standards in Politics and Elections

Currently, only five (5) sectors of the economy have AODA standards that require accessibility for citizens with disabilities. In addition, committees are developing standards in two (2) more sectors, education and healthcare. However, the AODA’s goal is an accessible Ontario by the year 2025. If only seven (7) sectors of the economy have AODA standards, the province will not be accessible in four (4) years. Therefore, the Third Review of the AODA recommends the creation of new AODA standards. For example, the review states that Ontario needs AODA standards for the sector of politics and elections. These standards would allow more citizens with disabilities to vote, run for office, or take part in political campaigns.

AODA Standards in Politics and Elections. Read full article.

Accommodation Plans for Tenants with Disabilities

Currently, no AODA standards require houses and apartments to be accessible. However, the Third Review of the AODA recommends the creation of standards mandating accessibility in housing. AODA standards in housing could require accommodation plans for tenants with disabilities.

Accommodation Plans for Tenants with Disabilities. Read full article.

AODA Training for Landlords and Other Workers in the Housing Industry

Currently, no AODA standards require houses and apartments to be accessible. However, the Third Review of the AODA recommends the creation of standards mandating accessibility in housing. AODA standards in housing could require AODA training for landlords and other workers in the housing industry.

AODA Training for Landlords and Other Workers in the Housing Industry. Read full article.

Improved AODA Training for Long-Term Care Staff

In a previous article, we outlined the need for more accessible community housing for people with a variety of disabilities. Currently, the lack of appropriate housing within communities means that some young people with disabilities live in nursing homes. Future AODA standards in housing may one day mandate better community housing supports. However, until these supports exist, nursing home staff should know how to best meet the needs of residents with disabilities. In addition, improved AODA training for long-term care staff would help them create a more welcoming environment for retired residents with disabilities.

Improved AODA Training for Long-Term Care Staff. Read full article.