National AccessAbility Week is May 26 to June 1
National AccessAbility Week is a time to celebrate the contributions of people with disabilities and to encourage accessibility and inclusion in communities and in workplaces. This year's theme is "Forward Together: Accessibility and Inclusion for All." This theme marks the importance of making B.C. more accessible and disability inclusive, including providing equitable opportunities for those with disabilities to participate in the workforce.
WorkBC’s Assistive Technology Services supports people in achieving their employment goals by providing equipment and devices that help individuals with disabilities or functional limitations to participate and thrive in the workplace.
Some of the supports available through Assistive Technology Services include:
- Ergonomic supports, such as desks, chairs, keyboards and lighting systems
- Restorative supports, such as canes or crutches
- Screen readers/magnifiers and voice recognition software
- American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting and captioning services
- Communication and hearing devices
- Vehicle modifications and ramps for mobility aids, such as wheelchairs or scooters
Many people facing work-related barriers due to disabilities have found success in finding and maintaining employment with support from Assistive Technology Services.
Disability practitioners equipped Rob, a writer who is blind, with a new computer, screen reader software and headset. They also trained him on how to use these new tools. Now Rob can submit his writing to publishers.
Assistive Technology Services provided Andrea, who has spastic cerebral palsy, with an adjustable sit-stand desk and a laptop with voice recognition software that allows her to type and search the web through dictation. Andrea is now able to work independently on her home-based business.
Assistive Technology Services also assisted Kelly, a quadriplegic, with vehicle modifications so he could get to work as a sales manager consultant at a car dealership.
Michael, founder and general manager of a construction company in Kelowna, and Amy, a chairside assistant and sterilization technician at a dental clinic in Grand Forks, both faced work-related barriers due to hearing impairment. Assistive Technology Services supported them both in getting hearing aids that allow them to thrive in their respective workplaces.
Learn more about how Rob, Andrea, Kelly, Michael and Amy benefited from Assistive Technology Services.
If you have a disability or functional limitation that impacts your ability to work, Assistive Technology Services may be able to support you with the accommodations you need to achieve your employment goals. Contact your local WorkBC Centre to learn how.