What is disability?
Disability is a name given to the barriers that exist for some people, because their bodies and minds work differently. We need to remove these barriers so that everyone can be included. Here are some examples of how barriers can be removed:
- A person who uses a wheelchair may not be able to access a building with steps. Add a ramp to the building and everyone can use the same entrance.
- Some people learn by reading information, others learn by listening to it, others require pictures or diagrams. When information is presented in more than one way, barriers are removed and everyone has the opportunity to learn.
- Some people find it difficult to make decisions about things when they are rushed, but can do it more easily when they have support and time to think. Making sure that everyone has time to think and ask questions means that everyone can make decisions about their own lives.
Tips for getting along
People with disability go to school and college, like having fun, and are part of families. You probably know at least one person with disability or maybe you have disability yourself. Remember that we are all different, so not all the following tips will apply to everyone:
- Just be yourself, say hi and make friends as you would with anyone else.
- When you talk to a person with disability, face them and talk to them. Their support person, parent or carer is a different person.
- When you talk to someone who is deaf or has a hearing impairment, make sure they can see your mouth.
- Always introduce yourself when you are approaching or saying hello to someone with vision impairment.
- Some people may have plenty to say but need more time to respond in a conversation, so be patient.
- Do not hold onto a person’s wheelchair or move someone in a wheelchair without their permission, because their wheelchair is part of their personal space.
- Do not pat or speak to someone’s guide dog or service dog. The dog needs to concentrate when working, so always ask the owner first if it is okay to say ‘hello’ to the dog. If they say no, respect their wishes.
- When sending an email to a person who is blind, use text rather than pictures.
- If you are not sure whether someone needs help, just ask.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities draws awareness to persons with disabilities and the problems they are faced with in their everyday lives. It is estimated that persons with disabilities around the world make up 10% of the population, and 80% live in developing countries.
But, even where disability laws are in place, its effectiveness can be held back by negative attitudes towards disabled persons.
Because so many types of disabilities exist, understanding them all individually can be a difficult task. But here is your chance to learn more.
Are you disabled or do you know someone who is? Everyone has different skills, and interests, so why not find a way to celebrate that, whatever it is?
The Paralympics are a great example of how disabled people can show off their talents to the rest of the world. For more information on disability rights and disability aid visit the International Day of Persons with Disabilities website.
The theme for 2015 is “Inclusion matters: access and empowerment for people of all abilities”. The aim includes making cities inclusive and accessible for all and including persons with invisible disabilities in society and development.