The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed on December 3 to promote the importance of inclusion in life and at the workplace for people with disabilities. The day is hosted by the United Nations ever year. This year, the theme for the day is 'Not All Disabilities are Visible.'
Everyone has a part to play when it comes to making the world more inclusive and accessible. Here’s a look at 10 ways you can help people with disabilities.
Ask first, then help and follow their lead
You should not always assume that all disabled people need help, especially when they don’t ask for it. You should always ask people if they need anything to make the process more effective or easier. When they do ask for help, ask for specific instructions and listen carefully to help them in the best possible way.
Be considerate to family members of people with disabilities
Family members of people with disabilities who care for or provide companionship may take extra measures like leave the workforce because of their loved one’s needs. Thus, being flexible and cooperative to the needs of family members can help greatly, especially if you are a business owner employing such caretakers.
When organising meetings or gatherings, check accessibility
If you are organising a meeting at workplace or planning a gathering, always make sure there is proper accessibility for disabled persons. You should also send detailed instructions on the accessibility of the venue to them in advance.
Employ people with disabilities
If you are a business owner or an employer, you can help greatly to combat the discrimination that the disability community faces while looking for a job. Employers must see a person, including his/her disability, as an asset and not a potential liability.
Make a pledge
Making a meaningful pledge to celebrate diversity, value accessibility and serve the disabled community can go a long way towards making a change. You can donate to disability charities or donate special equipment/technologies to disabled people in need.
Also read: International Day of Disabled Persons: These 5 restaurants are run by specially-abled teams
Visit someone with a disability
Visiting a person with a disability plays a significant role in their mental and social well-being as it makes them feel appreciated. As most disabled people get stigmatised, simply spending time with them can uplift their self-confidence and mood.
Work/volunteer for non-governmental organisations
Today, several NGOs support persons with disabilities where you can volunteer and take part in the multiple projects they have. Your services and participation can make a significant impact. However, make sure to get in touch with a reputable and genuine organisation.
Encourage others to be more inclusive
If your workplace, community, or residential area is not very inclusive with limited accessibility options for disabled people, you can start changing that by engaging with the authorities of leaders of your local area. You can contact organisations that can help your workplace become more inclusive and invite others to join conferences, classes, to learn more about differently-abled people
Learn and use proper terminology
Knowing how to respectfully speak about or talk to someone who is differently abled is a crucial part of respecting them and their private life. You should refrain from using derogatory or outdated terms to avoid hurting them and everything they have worked towards gaining respect in the community. You can look for the ‘Guide for Inclusive Language for People With Disabilities’ to learn more about proper terminology.
Elect persons with disabilities
This is probably one of the most meaningful ways to support persons with disabilities. Electing people with disabilities as leaders can truly help in overcoming the challenges as they can address the grievances in a more effective way. Such leaders can also push for reforms that help persons with disabilities and amend policies to ensure inclusion.
