Consultation In-Person Feedback Collection

Date: January 28, 2014 (evening)Group: Community consultation in-person sessionLocation: VancouverNumber of Attendees: 90

Note: all the information and feedback gathered at this session will be inputted into the overall collection of data and feedback for consideration of the development of the Disability White Paper.

Feedback:

More flexibility and creativity Accessibility of consultation Evening meetings (afternoon better) Presenting info so it is accessible for everyone More accessible for people who do not /cannot use technology Word of mouth Radio announcements (CBC) Uses of language was negative regarding employing PWD Present more solution based (sic) Language often used because of ignorance Need more programs for employment for youth w/disabilities – programs are focused on “get a job”

Employment Adopting job roles for people who would be great at one part of the job but maybe not the other eg. receptionist – reception skills but

maybe not the admin/computer skills Job shadow opportunities Development of skills for K-12 so they are ready for opportunities upon graduation People in the community reaching out for info only eg. students at a school asking others to join in activities Individualistic approach – making an effort

Feedback:

Someone to take the lead and make the effort Modern multicultural communities and people move more – people need a “reason” shared thing that brings people together

IDEAS Hosting neighbourhood events/dinners Intentional “radical hospitality” Not just a one-time event

Employment More training for managers/supervisors about PWD as employees Flexible work ours Match abilities to employment (work at home) Maybe more expensive initially but if help person find gainful employment then more independent in future Encourage PWD to go to work, not take away programs (rental subsidy, PWD, etc.) Health is basis for all success – building block to improving situations Hire PWD to help w/processes like white paper, does this process include PWD all the way to end decisions? Remove barriers to programs (self-employed program) PWD stand to lose when go to work, rather than gain

RDSP Other plans in other provinces are more flexible in what money can be used for

Housing Rent increase linked to employment – problem for all, incl PWD $375 for rent – actual is $200 higher therefore had to go without and use other community resources Had to choose bad housing in order to be able to have money for food

Hydro Cable not necessity Rent Clothing Food Phone

Need rate increase for shelter – at least $500 - $600 – need halfway decent housing Phone companies – need a special plan for PWD (esp. deaf and hard of hearing) MCFD removed children from parents w/dis – don’t have disability specific services so lose kids No interpreter in court No PWD specific workers at SDSI or MCFD – horrible

Feedback:

Too many hoops to get your kids back Housing – some have to move to major cities as no services available in rural areas Sharing stores is positive People don’t do educ if they can’t get equipment in a timely way IPhone technology allows video conference so can sign to a friend however very cosgtly ($800 plan plus $100 month data) Need to advertise credit more DTC – advertise – how can CRA call (part of appl process) To call bank/dr – relsy service means bank won’t’ release info Has to do release of info Every time he has to reinform the bank every time(sic) At SDSI office – frustrating as staff not always informed – TTHY not always available MH offices: TTY not avail for counselling w/out services – very overwhelming lack of awareness entrenched prejudice hospital, bank, other gov’t services – not available MIS for medical info services (nurse wouldn’t talk to the interpreter for youth in hospital) Needs to be part of the new hiring for gov’t staff Feel frustrated, overwhelmed, intimidated New all method – like text – will be big improvement in May/June – FINALLY Big reason why more people don’t use DTC/RDSP is why bother when income low – put $ to food, shelter, and then none left so don’t

bother w/RDSPRDSP

For some is a luxury they don’t have Saving for future but can’t afford ‘today’ Impossible to accumulate assets

On PWD Unemployed Underemployed

Barriers to assets May benefit future but you cannot be successful if you cannot afford breakfast that day

Difficulty w/people not wanting to work too much because of income deductions w/PWD High cost of living Customer service at PWD office

Feedback:

Feeling interrogated Not able to get into office Inaccessible phone line

Feelings of intimidation Raising walls/desk in front of people Workers need to address client/person requesting service – not person they are with, eg. advocate You need work into accumulate assets Cut off age is too late Application process is overwhelmingly difficult Is not applicable to those over age 50 Increase allowable income level before it clawed by PWD benefits More provincially accessible PWD services in smaller communities Individual development accounts (in US) similar to RDSP Hard to achieve when on PD as rates are low, Alberta is $1500 mnth Income level is below poverty and seniors receive more on OAS/GIS Change the age limit on the RDSP to allow contributions longer Reduce penalty for taking monies out More consideration for people with children Raise asset limit for PWD More info from Min regarding trusts No benefit to RDSP for someone older receiving CPPD Raising the earnings exemption PWD (significant) hard to work Disability based entitlement benefit and not earning exemption Explore another way to do earnings exemption Allow those who can work, work more and then subsidize more those who cannot Earn more w/out losing exemption Don’t link employment to disability assistance PWD rate s/b the sane as GIS to AS (sic) – increase to $1200 and adjusted for inflation Promote individuals funding so that people can tailor their support to when they need it – equipment, housing, mortgage Reduce conflict between program requirements and asset accumulation (saving for personal aides down the road may go over asset

limits) Flexibility in receiving/accessing assets Disability tax credit application is restricting for RDSP

Feedback:

RDSP Cut off at 60 – expand program What is its value if unable to contribute Raising awareness of its availability Other solutions for financial security Looking beyond 1:1 matching to kick start a savings accounts Ways to actively promote what is available Exploring other means of establishing financial security or accessing savings Deterrence to financial independence due to income exemption restrictions Eliminate caps and recap savings thru income taxation Employment for PWD may not be the right lens as many are unable to work Stable housing key to achievement Better housing Renewal on invested subsidized housing markets Income tested for adequate housing need to be less finited (sic) and more flexible Accessible

Financially Physically Supported For independent/semi-independent/supported Transit accessible Choices as to where to live

Housing situated outside of repressed areas (location) That housing incorporates accessibility to all amenities Catch 22 - if you make more that the income ceiling for subsidy you can’t afford housing On income assistance the waitlist are years long to get in Sense of feeling trapped in the situation – can’t afford to move to better housing but living in sub-standard housing – sense of falility

(sic) Inconsistent polices between province/mins/health authorities Regionality (sic) is a problem Budget drives access and availability Degenerative disabilities – need to plan for worst case scenario Realize and expect and anticipate needs, changing needs OT meeting with builders for planning housing accessibilities

Feedback:

Long term planning Architects, designers, builders, developers, municipalities May not be as expensive as expected There should be policy re: building accessibility Building code for better safety in homes, buildings Affordability Cost barriers to safe housing for PWD PWD living in unsafe housing Flexible housing model Safer Homes Society Care options and alternatives Go back to coop model, mixed housing/communities How does need for care hinder housing options Care from health units – limited times/availability Budget cuts affect care time available Need for individualized plans – needs $$$ Keep people in their homes Supportive housing needed People in need – a large spectrum of needs Preconceived perception of housing for poor people – care aids may not want to visit people at home Lack of funding for homecare Housing options (coops, shared care, independent living, etc.) Options:

Barriers – psychical, affordability, mental illness Where is the federal government National Housing Policy? Health issues are exacerbated by lack of housing

Need an Ombudsman position for issues around disabilities Single parents with disabilities – kids caring for their parents/families Important to consider the needs of all family members Respite for families with children w/mental health disabilities Need for respite Education needed re: disabilities, living with disabilities Each family has unique needs Managing disabilities and employment

Feedback:

PWD aging, needing seniors services Suburbs

Communities not conducive to walking/wheeling, etc. Design of communities People can afford suburbs more easily but they aren’t as accessible as larger centres Decades of work done in Vancouver Needed in small community

Maryhill bypass – bus stop not accessible If you feel safe in your community you will be able to leave and access community activities Making places more livable by accessibility Sidewalks that connect people to their housing Much housing has too many steps Vancouver

Bylaw changes Lever doors Lowering switches

Vancouver is good about talking about these issues Focus on making places accessible for PWD and also people w/o disabilities who may have visitors who require more accessibility Building to make places accessible for all – for basement suits and main floors – universal design Helping people understand strata bylaws/rules – plain language and accessible information Explaining requirements/expected contributions at a coop, etc. Involving tenants w/decisions on who does what and how they can contribute in their community People may not make an effort if nobody reaches out or makes an effort to inclusive (sic) Remove stairs = segregation Affordability – housing subsidy like for seniors Province wide building code (like that adopted in the City of Van) Prevents a PWD from visiting their neighbours if can’t get in the house or apt Raise numbers (address signage in public buildings) Visitability law – accessible entrance, wider doors, accessible bathroom (in place in England for 15 years)

Pearson building being redeveloped as an institution which is against UN More accessible housing Legislation t to make it compulsory to have # of subsidized units in each building – do province wide More affordable housing

Feedback:

Make program w/BC Housing where you can put rental income towards purchasing home…like rent to own or coop so people can work towards owning a home

When you create something that is accessible it is for everyone Have to spend money smarter If a developer builds a place that is accessible and affordable then they get 10% more (for example) an incentive Vancouver has accessible adaptable new bylaw (could be new provincial building code) – but it is only Vancouver not provincially – also

needs to be enforced – building and construction need to be educated – international standards and training already exist Business must be convinced that it is in their best interest Always dialogue with the business sector Business should be at the table Can the white paper get consultations/comments from business Affordability Universal design UN convention on PWD Don’t’ be inactive – government needs to create legislation Build in accessibility form the beginning then it doesn’t cost too much Adjust income assistance levels based on cost of living in community you live in Vancouver reworking housing building code /universal design – other cities sold adopt these also – maybe start w/larger communities Disability advisory committee could be used a s away to do this in other communities Disability housing shouldn’t be in the social housing model Broader availability for accessible housing for people who can afford those that need subsidy There is a need for more affordable/accessible housing in Vancouver No accountability for access Things have declined since BC Housing not building houses – contracts not maintaining same accessible standards – BC Housing

partnership w/ community and this has led to inaccessibility Losing coop housing as they are no longer providing subsidy to accessible housing Needs to be better maintained – BC Housing Diff levels of disability require different things Need housing options to let people live in options they choose Let people live in options they choose Funding should be attached to the person not the building Need more portable housing subsidies eg. SCIBC Funding cuts to adult housing/programs for those w/disabilities Support for adults w/DDs to live independently

Feedback:

Creative housing solutions to allow for hosing models that build communities Government to work w/cities to solve zoning/codes and bylaws issues that restricts housing and accessibility Changes to building codes/standards that include lighting and acoustics Focus on building new structures and infrastructure rather than retrofit all old buildings Universal design Clarity around access to mobility paths (bike lanes and scooters and motorized chairs) Include impaired and disabled in transportation design (not after) Include universal design in procurement process 9bus, trains, ferries, planes) Affordability Ability to live independently vs. having to share housing Standards for accessibility applied province-wide Supports and incentives to business to make changes to support accessibility Increase the disability rate to $1200 Subsidies for folks living in market housing Consistency in decisions as to who get into subsidized housing Remove barriers for ease of movement ex. No retrofit program for BC Housing Inclusiveness Basic standards for accessibility should be in place Make housing universal accessible for PWD Proper devices and safety equip be made available if needing for house (sic) Zoning laws/subsidy for PWD renovations Money available to those not in subsidized housing for renos Gov’t should give support to these using subsidized housing Subsidy/grant to those who lower income of rentals to accommodate PWD Higher cap for shelter allowance Consideration of both sides of the coin – participation vs. ability to keep up wit what needs to be accomplished Small community/group developments for all types of disabilities Proper supports and sufficient choices Lots of innovation in BC – how to tap into ig

Microboards Cooperation between organizations – make it easier to work together Foundation in support of out of box ideas like Bill Gates Less restriction from policy makers Tap into the innovations developed by those with disabilities – promote those w/dis. Into senior mgmt. positions

Feedback:

It always comes back to the basics – to succeed you must have adequate housing/education/basic needs/supports, financial backing Community ownership of inclusion Accessibility and inclusion to become part of legislation (infrastructure) That BC promote that everyone has the right to accessibility and inclusion, social safety, affordable living, supports, and ENFORCE it Blds permits issued only when accessibility included Push the conversation to the forefront – equity, accessibility, inclusion BC becoming a progressive province – changing attitudes, where we all live sustainably and successfully Have decisions made collaboratively – business, gov’t, community – have everyone included in the decision making Autism – toxicity – testing for heavy metals – research More access to resources\new technologies – iPad, voice activated software, using Bluetooth to do household tasks Technologies need to be accessible One stop shop/website to access services – meeting the needs of people with a range of disabilities People living in smaller communities need equal access to services and technologies Access website – multilingual Family support People who don’t have family support need to access services, may have additional needs Innovation in services Multidimensional supports needed Families of PWD also need support

What innovations would make it easier for PWD to make contributions to the community and what needs to be in place? Together with accessibility

Workshops for professional (eg. Doctors) to learn how to talk to the patient (person involved) without always addressing the “friend” or more able bodied looking person=

Not using jargon Awareness, eg. add (sic) campaign Not only doctors – everybody Perception that PWD cannot participate in all activities eg. fitness programs – “myth busting” Perceptions that PWD won’t be able to tell you what they want, eg. teachers saying “he won’t be able to tell you what he wants to do

after school”. Businesses and community centres orienting their staff on how to assist people with a variety of disabilities – fitness centre staff,

customer service Innovation coming from outside the businesses – show businesses how this training can be beneficial – studies show benefits to

businesses, eg. increased sales Walgreens created a distribution centre that included accessibility for all

Feedback:

Independent living centres Run by participants All services in one place Serves (sic) are one person centered All serves (sic) of all PWD appropriate for any disabilities/designed to meet the needs of all PWD Examples: blind, deaf, visual impairment, mobility impairment Everything should have a design mandate to accommodate all PWD issues

Persons centered (sic): the supports come to the person instead of the person having to go to the support Personal assistance and more direct contact Rehab is overlooked for PWDs More innovation around equipment, technology, that are available Need a system that lowers barriers and lets people try and get OT/Rehab specialists, technologist to build and flexible funding to pay as

needed Don’t see any outcome assessments that can follow up and measure if monies spent are helping people achieve goals – this could help

get target funding Having community volunteers come together to build these devices and ensure they are doing what people need/want them to EATI funding has been cancelled

They really focused on individuals and had people who “coached” PWD towards employment They were facing restraints of budget and were not able to approve required items

Pulling away a successful program that has had measurable success at the same time as having these sessions need to take advantage of existing working programs

Need community involvement and the one on one interaction Change of attitude that youth with disabilities will work – change expectations More supports at the school level Engage employers with youth and work experiences Get boards of trades and rotary clubs etc. involved Educate employers on PWD Fulfill potential – maximize it Innovation of technology needs to be supported – adapt person to environment rather than change environment – innovation funding

products can’t be fully developed Accessible tourism Be able to book accessible hotels, etc. Stopgap.ca Ramps built by community that helped everyone not just PWD – saved businesses $, increase accessibility

Feedback:

Accessibility codes for businesses Telephone, internet, cable = cost around $140 – subsidy needed Create partnership to offer telephone/internet/cable to make it affordable Internet access needed to learn about resources Benefit allowance to support communication, internet, networking, support, etc. Subsidy for groceries – partnership between grocery stores (Safeway) and PWD How to reduce the many times a dr. has to verify a person has a disability when it is really obvious Make medical records portable to eliminate many times one has to prove they have a disability Learning how to use new technology and access to tech training and education Cost is prohibitive for…(sic) Compile information from other districts/regions on innovations and possible solutions to current issues in BC Job grant for companies or subsidy to encourage hiring of PWD Living wage More freedom Travel, attend community events, etc. Separate SDSI income assistance from PWD Increase amount of local housing More education for the public – also more education for the “unseen” disabilities eg. mental Improve transportation for disability – HandiDART PWD are more in need at (sic) transportation than general public- buses need more spaces – client’s waiting 30 min + in the rain More education and proper safety equipment for those working in our transportation system Focus on busy times of day and increase transportation options Make the public and gov’t aware of how important HandiDART service is (and other similar transportation) Small transit tax increase to help fund specific transportation aimed at PWD Gov’t should be pushing all not only for PWD but in the grand scheme as all PWD will also become seniors, etc. Universal accessibility when in design phases, eg. transportation, housing Encourage builders to design focused on these for disabilities Disability should also be focused towards rapid transit planning

Inclusion PWDs are aware of the services and they are available to them w/out restriction in order to participate in the community Often have to self-advocate – get work out w/ the task of tracking down services Limited services for deaf and hard of hearing, often due to lack of funding EATI – so much paperwork that people give up as too overwhelming – so no equipment, not interpreter Need assistance to participate as part of inclusion

Feedback:

From Surrey too far to get to Burnaby to access services, too little funding Gaps – not enough equipment, interpreters Fairness Delivery and quality is very lacking Long waitlists for services so need more staff (caseloads are too high so service drops) Improve quality of life Tangible way to remove barriers to achieve potential Benefits ALL persons – everyone is part of the community and it shouldn’t be a vision “us vs. them” mentality support and acceptance of

all different groups of society The proper supports benefits everyone Need a mainstream change of mindset Limitations identified with restrictions on supports

Budget constraints Approved supports vs. non-approved Restricted All basic supports should be provided Would increase employment to all BC residents if proper supports/needed supports would be provided Supports in and out of home at workplaces, etc. Partnerships

EATI Not inclusive for everyone w/disabilities Focus is on employment Needs more focus on independence Cost coverage for devices to use technology Designed for people w/different needs Variation of assisted devices program in Ontario – also a program in Quebec Medical and tech devices Making EATI broader

EATI for everyone not just people who want to work Eligibility criteria consistent and fair across program Should not threaten disability supports Technology supports should be available for quality of life as well as employment opportunities Providing supports reduces dependency increases functioning and reduces costs Universal

Feedback:

Personal centred instead of system centred No institutions Transform home support – equal costs to the current system and transforms people’s lives Consistent w/ UN convention or rights of PWD Fair assessment

Provincial not local Independent appeal

Individualized funding like Swedish system Hire own workers Independent living centre Through an agency

Security of support Support can’t be reduced without demonstrating improvement in person’s condition No fee Support for all activities of life, work, education, recreation, social, personal care, housework, etc. Intervenes for deaf blind people Sign language interpreters Sign language taught in elementary school General education about needs of PWD for the public and staff in (sic) school age to improve understanding of the challenges faced by

PWD Disability resource centre where you can access all services Yellow pages for disability resources Website w/available information from ALL programs Make things easier to navigate and accessible to everyone No universal building code/standard with regards to disability CSIL needs to be reviewed and more info available Acknowledge usefulness of program and how it’s used Provide equal opportunities to succeed If someone needs dentures, provide them People want to be engaged but there isn’t the support Job coaching, etc. Possible to use volunteers? Individualized funding in developmental disability community – some parents don’t’ have expertise to manage Get rid of “if you don’t use it you lose it” mentality of government

Feedback:

Concern of losing funding Need funding to be more flexible Expand EATI – not well known program – more public awareness – developed by people w/disabilities – focus on particiaptoon Community/government partnership Participation model vs. medical model Media awareness re: EATI Choices in supportive living – individualized funding Use participation model for CISLs develop thru health authorities Home support needs a resource centre so people can get info about it Home support needs to include housekeeping, laundry Reinstate housekeeping and meal prep and participation activities in home support Resource centre that allows people to access all info on supports for PWD include employment One stop shopping Call the resource centre ability alliance Innovation; if something is working well, don’t change it – recognize it works! More awareness of fetal alcohol syndrome and fetal alcohol effect for those in authority (police, bus drivers) Laws and approach to police intervention More tolerance for guide animals Aid from abled persons sometimes within communities/direct help (eg. sighed persons may need help from those with good vision) Access to daily living assistance and outreach programs Affordable cell phones Funding for technology tables, smart phones Bluetooth able phones can connect to hearing aids Cost of mobile phone service is prohibitive Technology can’t solve all problems Where to access supports (eg bed) Supports are key for work Accessible information about supports Timely decisions Loss of supports on move from Prov to Fed programs One stop shop for supports Accessibility to employment programs Awareness of what is available People/family who support PWD, they need better support as well

Feedback:

Infrastructure in place to promote accessibility for disability persons in its absence causes these suffering to be virtual prisoners in their own homes – basic human right

Streamline the process for acquiring devices often asked for drs info that is already on file many times – drs are charging over and over for same info = waste of $ and resources

Making sure PWD is getting proper equipment needed and making sure/following up that it’s correct for individual Need to have more support to the employers who hire PWD so they may be able to understand and work with the disability as well as

maybe get assistance or subsidy for hiring PWD to renovate if needed, etc. If you hire people with PWD, the employer would be allowed to pay a lower rate (gov’t pays the rest) just to get the PWD in the door

and hired If you make over the $800 exemption, rather than being penalized, $4$ (sic) after the $800 that it is then 50% taken off the rest of the

amount Student aid equipment

Gov’t policy – no exception available If a person has an outstanding loan therefore can’t get equipment Right to education

EATI Only service avail but waitlist of a year – school program ½ over before equipment approved Make equipment more accessible

Causes barriers to developing friendships – negative self talk – segregation Social network fundamental

Should be significant part of development and programs More access to programs without cost association Too many waitlists to access programs To be adapted to individual needs

Identify what is meaningful to that individual and make it accessible Programs need to be accountable Partnership w/education/community/employment/housing and supports to development of social networks Community living with the idea that everyone brings something meaningful to the community (cooperative) Lower the obstacles Not a “babysitting” program, but one that promotes/encourages connections, skills, achievement Family needs to be involved along with all other support – financial supports issued to assist families in having the time to participate Need for friendship People may be isolated Making community connections\transitions out of hospitals back into the community – need some supports

Feedback:

After someone has had an accident or injury they need to be able to access supports Isolation – depression Connectors between school system/healthcare system Different communities look different Education on daily tasks, adapting to changes, disabilities Pity is useless, self-pity is the worst Educate the community/individuals to be proactive To be able to access fitness, outdoor programs, art programs, creative writing, etc. Innovative imaging – how to be involved in creative pursuits Self stigma Stigma attached to PWD can prevent being active/proactive Work with people around issues of grief and loss Being judgemental, getting “stuck” and isolated Professionals who can understand issues of grief and loss Disability – depression Create space to grieve Professionals who give people time Mental health and wellness attached to physical health and wellness

Both equally important More attention needed

Bring dinner to the home of someone who has difficulty getting out and about Accessible housing – we’re all only temporarily physically able If you feel a part of something you will feel more confident trying new things/getting out in the community Promotes good health when you have friends/community PLAN is a good success story and model to use province wide instead of just Vancouver Need to educate children on how to be friends with a PWD build into curriculum start early Accessibility to the community many people isolated Peers support programs/support groups No information on what the accessibility of parks is Resource guide on what groups/events/parks/sports groups are accessible Living in poverty hard to access social networks Too much red tape! Take existing government structure and resources and revamp to assist community of PWD Government needs to coordinate and organize its own agencies and contractors to make information on available services accessible to

Feedback:

all gov’t bodies/contact points Supports for parents and siblings supporting PWD Increase TYZE (sic) networks/increase funding to aid the disabled create own social networks Allow/support web hosting for non-government groups and disability organizations to centralize and share info w/out government

interference Provide tools for communities to develop own websites, safe places to go to connect Support access (free) to internet Supports for grandparents caring for disabled children Increased support for recreational activities Reinstate community volunteer supplement – helps people to be less isolated Moving away from “day program” concept and integrating connections to community organically Making access to recreation/community resources more affordable Increase awareness to services and benefits to PWD eg. rec passes, bus pass program More web pages accessible for FAQs Being able to speak to a worker one on one online More available accounts/chatrooms where people can help each other who are dealing with similar issues WorkBC is a failure sucks Solutions need to be person centred WorkBC centers s/b located within independent living centers for specialized populations Duplication, bureaucratic, pay an per service (sic) basis is a failure – inflexible, does not allow for additional supports in difficult

situations WorkBC is set up as if their services were being accessed by the general population whereas the main consumes are specialized

populations Needs of small businesses re: hiring PWDs is much different from large corporations IT techies ask PWDs (the end user) Employers (sm and medium sized) need a place to go to get info on accommodation to the workplace When technology changes the employer needs to take into account how this affects all employees including PWD All work is valued – nature and form of work (ie. FT, PT, coop are accepted and recognized) within labour standards Benefits are lessened in PT workers this is a barrier for persons who can’t work FT Give an incentive to employees to hire a PWD Need to advertise successes of PWD in the workplace Lack of knowledge of necessary accommodations at WorkBC Change to develop work experience as a PWD Less supports available for work opportunities for those w/less visible disabilities ie. MH

Feedback:

Flexible employers/job supports Incentives to employers to hire and accommodate in the job Accumulated/increased % incentives for employers who keep employees as years progress Stigma associated to gov’t incentives – would that be a detriment Supports for technology needed More focus on reaching out to high schools to educate on youth/life skills Allowing youth opportunity to contribute in community Not all programs in schools will work well for PWD More training/awareness/for teachers/staff/educators You need support and infrastructure Employers need support Incentive for employers to hire Have lost specialist service providers – WorkBC doesn’t have them -0 need years of experience vocational rehabilitation expertise PWD have had very challenging experience with WorkBC Hard to talk about work when people don’t have other supports. Eg. a home to live in, poverty Job application process barrier More customized employment Employer have to be educated on the “business case” to hire someone with a disability Businesses need to talk to other businesses about success to hire PWD Does the government keep stats on how many employees they have with a disability Government could lead the way by hiring more PWD Personal supports are needed when employed Assistive devices are needed WorkBC to offer assistive devices Eligibility criteria for EATI requires you to be unemployed Provisions of assistive devices to be for people to keep their job HAFI needs to be expanded to that you have home to go to work from Eliminate per diem for home support if you are going to work Keep MSO should be maintained if you are working (currently only one year) Get rid of poverty Increase buying potential of PWD Exercise abilities in the workforce Valuable contribution Abilities should be recognized over disability

Feedback:

Increase diverse perspectives Barriers to apply for jobs (online applications) Accessibility of government services Lack of action on behalf of provincial government to make information accessible Make BC government job applications more accessible (online doesn’t work for all) BC government needs to lead on employing the disabled within government “Must have valid BC driver’s licence” is a barrier to jobs that may not actually need it Most disabled folks want to work – many choose not to declare their disability Simplifying process for people to get the supports needed Employers need to step up so disabled employees can get the supports they need Gov’t to provide incentives for businesses to hire PWDs – reinstate community volunteer supplement Promote the benefits for hiring PWDs – what are the value added Individualized approach – supports for individuals from pre-employment to continuing supports throughout employment Over the $800 exemption get to keep 15% of what you make over without being penalized Gov’t needs to support employers and streamline the process of hiring PWD – labour law hrs may need to be more flexible to

accommodate Labour laws and unions need to be more flexible – gov’t to take lead on this Separate the PWD from being tied into Income Assistance (welfare) designation Better educate the public Big corporations are afraid to hire PWD due to liability concerns – need education and support from gov’t to help address this – some

type of guarantee that this would not be an issue. Myths still that PWDs can’t work Not many places can accommodate deaf and hard of hearing Employers do not have awareness WorkBC – 6 week program – no equipment for training on the job School will do equipment, helps finds job, post- placement supports (aka checks in every Friday) Look at PWD differently Moto often time is $ If deaf or hard of hearing that costs $ Should be benefit or tax incentive to employers to employ for PWDs Some companies offer to hire 1 in 14 w/PWD – forces those companies to hire more diverse population (this happens in US) PWD has to be increased better than other to get/keep jobs Deaf and hard of hearing – in construction can do work but need to better (sic)/do more Need more employ. services

Feedback:

Dis Act in USA –Canada needs one DA should not be the only option Not enough options (Vancouver Community College only option Need more equip WorkBC did not meet needs 80-85% of deaf or hard of hearing are underemployed – opportunities for promotion not here for deaf Could consider payments from gov’t or companies for loss of income Wage subsidy for PWDs Not one fix

Supply – job training, etc. Demand – easier for employers, etc.; myth dispel myths that not that costly/burden

Employer should understand that diverse staff can be benefit and could inspire customers to want to support the company Could sell up/increase

Solution Wall Posts:

Highlights: Expansion of participation model over medical model Individualized supports for

Technologies Housing Work/socialization Support resources

The way you do business – include PWD Make universal design a core principle of all government communication, planning, procurement and regulations Treat the disabled as actual people and not burdens to society Learned a lot from individuals To work this process must be a true community process – not just a disability process – all stakeholders must be engaged contributors We need a ONE STOP SHOP (ie website REAL resources) to access ALL options in all of the six categories we discussed Resilience, collaboration, education, progress, sharing stories is positive Increase amount allowable in a trust account allowing someone with PWD to control their assets Opportunity to increase awareness about supports =- “myth busting” eg. RDSP

Housing subsidizes Visibility law Need audible bus stop announcements No institutions in BC Use universal design stds when creating transport that is accessible Audible pedestrian signals for visually impaired Mental health Focus on MH as primary consideration in managing disability for both the disabled person and his/her family and other supports Increase access to variety of MH care; make it more of a focus and allow more $$ Smartphones help as assistance devices Recognition and assistance of and for those who are incarcerated to avoid victimization Disability awareness and sensitivity training for service providers who work with disabled New websites need to be accessible by visually impaired Requiring all medical professionals to receive training about disabilities Coordinate transitions between government ministry programs More accessible library materials for visually impaired Occupational therapy in primary health care Maintain funding for personal support such as EATI Increased disability rates to meet cost of living and more affordable housing, mor individual support for PWD Rehab supports part of core service! Eliminate the clawback of the Child Maintenance Payment Need to adopt legislation about service animals Reintroduce the Community Volunteer Supplement Elimination of the clawback of the CPP Policies to increase food security Universal design – ability to age in place – decreased costs for hospitalization and long term care Implement the recommendations of the report “Overdue – The Case for Increasing the Persons with Disabilities in BC” in 2012 -

$200/month plus $385 housing supplement for market housing Need accessible websites for visually impaired Accessible voting for people who are visually impaired Foster diversity People with disabilities need individualized funding, that would give them the choices everyone should be surrounding housing, care,

social opportunities Define universal accessibility Don’t fund the cheaper thing/device Grassroots supports for assistance technologies

Develop community centres that are resource centres for PWD Cherish PWD Care with heart Awareness Continue finding to successful programs like EATI Retrofit program for more accessible building to make wheelchair accessible Having an effective and simple way to navigate supports and services Consistency of access to supports and services across regions in the province People receiving CPP disability from the federal gov’t should be eligible to get the same provincial benefits such as the bus pass, allowed

to work, and make higher income receiving support with other issues Increase in cap of earnings for people to encourage people to work Incentive program for business to hire people with disability Provide homecare and cleaning services for PWD General education about PWD issues given to the general population (advertising) Accessibility (physical and braille) is a given Create on (sic) provincial disability resource centre Need to increase amount of funding for service animals for people on PWD funding Engage PWD all the way through this process RDSP – very few disabled would qualify Flexible multi-approaches to housing/get back to developing coops/better transfer from hospital to community –set people up to thrive

in community More funding to identify and support people with Brain Injury Federal housing strategy PWD should not be sentenced to life of poverty and isolation Starting children in elementary school about the importance of maintaining social networks (sic) Extend RDSP grant past 50 years old Provincial coordinated strategy on accessible housing – central access point for housing – incentives to increase access to housing in

private market Legislation to lead the way I creating true inclusive and accessible communities in BC – look to ADA and Ontario as champions! Lack of services for parents PWD children in care Have PWD at the policy/concept level where policies are made Adopt and follow the UN convention of the Persons w/DA So many of the ideas we talked about would go for everyone Do not reduce HandiDART service at a time when demand is increasing due to more seniors and less availability to personal wheelchair

equipped vehicles by non profit Community – national (provincial?) disability act – conversations – pave way for change in attitudes

Consider tax benefits/legislation to make it easier for people with disabilities to start small businesses PWD benefits need to be increased and rise with inflation – if the government can’t afford it, reduce benefit for employed, get rid of

exemption limit then increase PWD for unemployed to $1200 Transform home support

Support all activities, daily life, social medical model Follow UN Convention Independent appeal Individualized funding – hire own workers, agency of choice Security of support No fee

Raise PWD – no more cuts More wheelchair accessible housing Policy and laws to provide accessibility services

Require a % of their employees to have a disability Offer incentives for PWDs, for example cell phone plans for deaf/hard of hearing or speech impaired, have to spend $ on data

plans Government is moving toward technology as the solution, it doesn’t work for everyone – if a person needs to meet with an income

assistance worker they should be able to Instead of removing kids because a parent’s disability (sic) provide services and let us be parents – we have disabilities , we’re not

disabled Government must take a lead in setting universal standards for accessibility in architectural design Affordable cell phones Vancouver resource centre – abilities alliance, one stop shopping Basic services such as internet, telephone and basic cable need to be subsidized for low income individuals and families – the

government needs to work a partnership with Shaw and Telus – low income individuals can’t afford $140 for this Save HandiDART! Stop cutting back on service Accessibility broadly with respect to assistive technology, housing, employment Attention to disability starting with youth – it shouldn’t start at age 19 Aloud (sic) to earn $800 after that you should be able to keep a percentage of anything over that – what are the rules on getting cut off –

explain the rules and work the client (sic) before any problems happen BC to develop collaborative agency inclusive of all partners in moving us forward We have harnessed the collective knowledge tonight, but seeing these conversations move to fruition is critical Why was education not a topic? All government treat people with disabilities with dignity and respect Review/attention to best practices before setting policy, designing service – what is happening/working in other jurisdictions? Government is not utilizing disability experts they have – they have been moved to other positions – disability role has disappeared

Make an immediate commitment to EATI and the participation model! Help for PWDs getting through red tape (ie over the phone) Getting businesses to see the benefit of hiring PWD as 537. (sic) of Canadians know someone with a disability Increase tax savers throughout BC Province wide adaptable housing initiative to be enforced as a building code Partnership with major BC grocery stores like Save ON Foods, Safeway, Superstore for subsidized groceries for PWD, not including junk

food Make this “White Paper” an ongoing sustainable process – a real dialogue w/gov’t and community Post-secondary education (all education) using institutional universal design – inclusive education – post graduation Increase rent PWD (sic) Provide a tax break incentive to employers on a graduated scale, ex. 1st year – 10%; 2nd year – 15%; 3rd year – 20%, instead of cash wage

subsidy for hiring incentive When speaker is speaking too close to mic – feedback and noisy Bring back specialized service to WorkBC that were cut due to budget concerns Parent with disabilities are parents to (sic) Invite the business sector! They must be invited and realize it’s in their own (economic) interests to develop accessible services for all Not enough time to go through all six Universally designed housing Increase # of housing units to be made available to those with disabilities in decent accessible neighbourhoods (throughout the

community) Housing subsidies available to all people with disabilities Provincial public policy – network-based approaches partnered housing/communities – cooperatives for housing ie. university students

and people with disabilities – cooperatives with physical/practical supports Pilot the participation model in a health authority Accessible tourism via websites – tourism in Vancouver – TBC Tourism BC – will boost businesses (hotels, restaurants, recreation) Follow UN convention Civic incentives for private home ownership accessibility adaptation in private suites – to increase options for accessible housing Central registry of accessible housing – market and social RDSP – problem: cannot remove the funds at any time or you lose the gov’ts contribution – how will one know 0 years in advance that

they will retire in 10 years? Scale up EATI by making it the front door for WorkBC ! Raise PWD rates Have infrastructure in place to ensure that the disabled, in any form, are able to get around in their communities and are not reduced to

prisoners in their own homes All services should be developed with the participation of those who use them Expanded individualized funding

Government must set universal standards for Bluetooth codes etc. (tech codes) so that apps can be designed to control elevators, doors, etc. via smartphone

For PWD benefits – housing allowance to change/vary depending on location (for instance, Van more expensive for housing that (sic) other places)

Look at what others are doing and work…do not reinvent the wheel More schools for PWD to continue their education with grants To create school curriculum that targets K-12 teaching the value of inclusion (peer mediated learning “expert friends” being created) Enable community groups to work together as networks rather than competing with each other for contracts WorkBC to have specialized offices (like youth WorkBC offices) Enact and accessible building code for the province based on Vancouver’s new accessible and adaptable building bylaw Provide home support hourly funding based on the participation model Have more employment contracts – more job coaches for PWD

Cutting Red Tape:

Accept spiders and realize that they are interesting and creative people (sic)RDSP – DCT T2201 form required every five years ? no need to create this barrier for PWD personBC Housing needs to make sure that their “community partner” are actually building to accessible standards…right now red tape has been cut too muchDon’t reinvent the wheel - many good practices – white papers standards exist at local/provincial/federal/ international levels….Incentives – what if gov’t supports related more to progress and success of those serviced than the # of people in each caseload? People-centred programs – housing, employment/benefits, equipment/supports, etc.