Aligning Inclusion with Government Priorities

Many participant stories highlight that disability inclusion efforts are more successful when they fit with existing government goals and projects. This includes making sure initiatives line up with multi-year plans, accessibility legislation, or major facility upgrades and new building projects.

Fredericton, New Brunswick

Wendy and the Accessible NB team contact municipalities and businesses as soon as they learn about new construction or renovation projects. Using their audit tools and expertise, they help ensure that buildings are designed to include everyone from the start. This proactive involvement helps prevent problems and saves money by avoiding expensive changes after the fact.

The Role of Accountability

Some municipal staff found that proposals for disability inclusion are more likely to win support from decision-makers when they are linked to the municipality’s legal responsibilities — such as those found in provincial, territorial, or national accessibility laws — or when they stress the duty to serve the whole community.

Truro, Nova Scotia

In Truro, Nova Scotia, Shannon explained that support for inclusive recreation grew, as the community saw the success of the sledge hockey program. As more people got involved and recognized its benefits, it became easier to gain backing from city council and local leaders for further inclusion initiatives.