Sawchuk says the conversation is key | Photo submitted
When you think about accessibility, you probably think of ramps, elevators and power doors – but there are plenty of ways that your space might be preventing people from accessing your services.
Blyth local, Julie Sawchuk, Accessibility Consultant and wheelchair user says that accessibility goes far beyond physical mobility.
Highlighting the economic and communal benefits, Sawchuk says that according to StatsCan, 29% of people over 18 live with some kind of disability – meaning that if you aren’t pivoting your business to serve them, you’re missing out on almost a third of your customer base.
Fear often hinders progress – a major fear being the cost of installing or improving services – but Sawchuk says that many accessible services are free or no cost, and largely involve educating employees about how they can best serve their clientele, while also removing or minimizing barriers through things like ramps, curbside pickup, and large fonts.
Commending local pioneers in accessibility, Sawchuk points to establishments like Cowbell Brewery and North Huron Family Health Team in Wingham for their exemplary efforts. These venues offer not only physical access but also crucial amenities like adult-size changing tables, catering to diverse needs. Sawchuk says that there are only three adult change tables in the entire county, effectively limiting the available opportunities for people that require facilities of that kind.
For businesses seeking guidance, Sawchuk says that she and her friends use the AccessNow app to recommend places to other users – it’s completely free to check your business and see where there’s room for improvement, or to check how others in your area are doing well. She also recommends tapping the expertise of accessibility professionals like herself, who can offer advice on how you can improve.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
