Kids Help Phone’s accessibility plan
Kids Help Phone is committed to preventing, identifying and removing barriers that impede the ability of our clients, employees and volunteers to access our services.
Assistive devices
Assistive devices are supports made available to improve access care for all with disabilities. We will ensure that our staff is trained and familiar with various assistive devices that may be used by employees, volunteers or clients with disabilities accessing our services.
Communication
We will communicate with people with disabilities in ways that take into account their disability, and ensure that we facilitate effective communication. This includes, but is not limited to making our website and printed material available in an accessible format.
Service animals
Service animals are used by many people with disabilities, and for that reason we welcome people with disabilities and their service animals. Service animals are welcome into staff areas and any parts of our offices that are open to the public or for staff.
Support persons
A support person is there for many with disabilities to help with communication, mobility, personal care, medical needs or access to our services. A person with a disability will be allowed to have that person accompany them on our premises.
Notice of temporary disruption
In the event of a planned or unexpected disruption to services or facilities, we will notify employees and visitors promptly. This clearly posted notice will include information about the reason for the disruption, its anticipated length of time and a description of alternatives, if available.
Employment
Our recruitment and selection practices are transparent and inclusive and adhere to the relevant legislation including the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and Human Rights Code. This means that we will provide accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the full-cycle recruitment process based on their needs.
Emergency planning
Any emergency or evacuation plan will take into consideration any employee or visitor who may need assistance in the event of an emergency such as an evacuation of the premises.
Staff training
Kids Help Phone will provide training to employees and volunteers. The training will include:
- An overview of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005
- Kids Help Phone Plan – communication, customer service, employment
- How to interact and communicate with persons with various types of disabilities
- How to interact with persons with disabilities who use assistive devices, or the services of a support person or service animal
- What to do if a person with a disability is having access difficulties at Kids Help Phone
Feedback
Clients, employees or volunteers who wish to provide feedback on the way Kids Help Phone interacts with persons with disabilities can contact us. All issues will be addressed according to our regular complaint management procedure.
