Approximately 15% of the world’s population experiences disability. Additionally, with ageing populations, that figure is likely to increase, especially when other issues such as communicable and non-communicable diseases are taken into consideration. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that environments play a huge role in experience and it impacts people greatly. In fact, an environment determines how someone from the disabled community is able function optimally and with equal and equitable opportunities.  

Key Findings

Defining Disability 

According to WHO, disability manifests from the interaction between people with a health condition alongside personal and environmental factors such as negative attitudes, inaccessible transportation and public buildings and limited social support.  

Defining Access/Accessibility 

Generally, access allows for, and facilitates the rights of and considers inclusion for persons with disabilities within society.  

To contextualise, accessibility is identified as the “provision of flexible facilities and environments, either virtual or physical, to accommodate [persons’] needs and preferences…

Importance of Disability Access in Businesses/the Workplace 

The importance of disability access is made obvious in the benefits of disability inclusion in businesses and more specifically in workplaces. When accessibility is made a priority, it allows clients to readily reach your products and services. This is only truly possible when employees from the disabled community are given the tools to enhance those products and services…