Creating Accessible Workplaces for Persons with Disabilities

The World Health Organization states that about 1.3 billion people, or 16% of the global population, have a disability, including physical, sensory, and intellectual impairments. Despite many employers aiming to create inclusive workplaces for individuals with disabilities, numerous organizations still face challenges with infrastructure, resources, and policies. Embracing disability inclusion not only broadens the talent pool but also boosts productivity through diverse perspectives and fosters a culture of acceptance.?Read more on how to create an accessible workplace for people with disabilities here.

At an International Women’s Day Summit we spoke to Payal Kapoor, a visually impaired disability consultant & TEDx Speaker. "Affirmation comes from within" is more than just an aphorism in the case of Payal Kapoor. It’s a way of life for her. Losing her eyesight at the age of 22 made her feel like the life ahead was a dead-end street. But for someone with an unyielding spirit like Payal’s, life was only about to soar ahead. Sure, the path was rocky for her, but an insight into her decades-long journey as a visually impaired individual goes beyond her personal struggles and victories.

Read excerpts from the interview with Payal here and?watch the whole interview here.

Addressing Challenges, A while ago Payal was in the news for being abandoned at an airport by an Indian airline. Despite having asked for assistance, which is mentioned in the DGCA Guidelines for carriage by Air for Persons with Disability / and or Persons with reduced mobility, and being tagged on her boarding card as visually impaired, Payal had a harrowing and traumatic time.

As someone who is not visually impaired, it is difficult to fully comprehend the frustration and fear that such a situation could cause. Being left alone in an unfamiliar environment, without the ability to see, is undoubtedly an incredibly isolating, disorienting, and vulnerable experience. It is important for airlines and other organizations to recognize and accommodate the unique needs of individuals with disabilities and to take responsibility when they fail to do so. No one deserves to be treated with such neglect and disregard.

Steps to Foster Inclusion?Here are some things we can do as organizations to help visually impaired employees feel included:?Creating an Inclusive Workplace for Visually Impaired Employees.

Creating an accessible and inclusive workplace for people with disabilities is not just a legal obligation but a moral imperative. By ensuring our workplaces are accommodating and supportive, we not only adhere to ethical standards but also enrich our organizations with diverse talents and perspectives. Let's commit to making our work environments places where ability knows no bounds.

For more information on how to make your workplace more accessible and inclusive for people from all walks of life, contact us at +91-9500129652, email [email protected], visit www.kelphr.com

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