The project consists of three phases:

  1. Writing and translation of the guide and a universally accessible website.
  2. Data collection
  3. Data processing and analysis

The member organizations of the COPHAN also received a questionnaire during the planning stages (or on the draft??) of this guide. It contained some fifteen questions on the experience, needs and expectations of persons with disabilities in the area of universal accessibility (see Appendix ___ at the end of the guide).

Questionnaire

As part of phase 1, we invite you to answer this questionnaire containing approximately15 questions about your experiences, interests, needs and expectations in terms of universal accessibility.

Depending on your type of limitation as well as your interests and needs, we would like your feedback on the aspects addressed in the attached fact sheets. This phase is very important because it will help us identify gaps between:

  • Accessibility standards currently in force.
  • Good practices in Canada and abroad.
  • Your personal experiences with universal accessibility.

Please answer to the best of your knowledge. The information collected will be anonymous. Your contact details will only be used for follow-up when necessary.

Deadline to return questionnaire: Friday, May 17, 2024.

If you would prefer to respond verbally, schedule a meeting, or obtain more information, please contact:

Mathieu Noël
Case Manager, COPHAN
[email protected]

Questions

1. What type(s) of functional limitation(s) do you have?

(Check all that apply to you)

  • Motor
  • Visual
  • Auditory
  • Related to language and speech
  • Neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Other (please specify): _____________________

2. Do you belong to one or more of the following groups?

(Check all that apply to you)

  • Women
  • Racialized individuals
  • Persons in a visible minority group
  • LGBTQQIP2SAA people
  • Seniors
  • Other (please specify): _____________________

Architecture, urban planning, housing

applicable, what are your experiences, interests, needs or expectations regarding:

3. … public buildings?

4. … dwellings?

5. … parks and green spaces?

Programs, services and employment

applicable, what are your experiences, interests, needs or expectations regarding:

6. … childcare centres?

7. … educational services?

8. … transportation services?

9. … health and social services?

10. … employment?

11. … income?

Information and communication

applicable, what are your experiences, interests, needs or expectations regarding:

12. … the design of printed documents?

13. … the design and use of images?

14. … the design of websites and digital media?

15. … oral communication?

Awareness and training

applicable, what are your experiences, interests, needs or expectations regarding:

16. … the way you are treated by public services?

Other

17. Have you had any other experiences, interests, needs or expectations that were not addressed in this questionnaire?

terminology

Definition of “persons with functional limitations”

We refer to the Disability Creation Process model, which highlights the influence of external factors, such as physical barriers and attitudes, on the individual’s condition.

Under this model, disability results from disabling situations, i.e., circumstances where a need is not met. This definition focuses on the person’s situation rather than on their personal characteristics. It also stresses the importance of intervening in the physical and social environment to prevent such situations.

Our guide will cover five types of functional limitations:

  1. Motor
  2. Visual
  3. Auditory
  4. Language and speech
  5. Neurodevelopmental disorders

What is universal accessibility?

Universal accessibility is defined as:

[TRANSLATION] “The nature of a product, process, service, information or environment that, with equity in mind and as part of an inclusive approach, enables any person to perform activities on their own and to obtain equivalent results.”

In practice, it guarantees everyone, regardless of their abilities, independence in enjoying equal opportunities and a quality experience.

Based on the needs of people with functional limitations, universal accessibility aims to meet these expectations. We encourage you to share any relevant data that could help us in our efforts.