News and Updates

Accessibility Directorate Updates: 

• Accessibility Standards Infographic: The Accessibility Directorate has recently launched an accessible infographic that was developed to outline the standard development process. It is available in French and English, and ASL video. The infographic is posted to the Accessibility Directorate government website,  Accessibility Advisory Board website, and on the Creating Accessibility Standards page on the Access Includes Everyone website.                                        
• Understanding Ableism Public Education Resources: These resources include a Frequently Asked Questions Guide, three posters (What is Ableism?, Impacts of Ableism, and Take Action Against Ableism) a presentation with speakers notes, and a narrated video of the presentation. All documents are in French, English and American Sign Language.  These resources are to be used by anyone in your organization who is responsible for front line services, in communications, education or training, human resources, or working to support inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility.                                                                                                                                                                                                                    
• Plain Language Resource Guide: The Accessibility Directorate is pleased to share the updated Plain Language Resource Guide. The resource guide is for anyone who wants to improve their writing for the public. The guide provides the basics of writing in plain language. The resource guide is available on the Access includes Everyone Resource Hub. Plain language benefits everyone!                                                                

Standards Development Committees - Upcoming public consultations: The Nova Scotia Accessibility Advisory Board will be consulting with the public on its draft standard recommendations on accessible Public Transportation and Information and Communications. The consultation is planned for February and March. Please stay tuned for more information on how you can give feedback.

More information about the standards is available on the Accessibility Directorate’s website.

• Hidden disabilities Sunflower Canada has their own podcast called The Sunflower Conversations with over 100 podcast episodes available on their website and on Spotify! The podcast shares stories of people with disabilities navigating life with non-visible disabilities such as chronic illness, mental health conditions, neurodivergence, and more. They also feature experts in healthcare, accessibility and inclusion. Visit The Sunflower Conversations to watch their podcast episodes and visit there website Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to learn more about their organization.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 
• Disability Belongs launched a new resource for persons with disabilities who are entering the workplace for the first time or considering a career change. The resource: Job Seeking Tips for People with Disabilities are designed to support persons with disabilities as they explore options, prepare for opportunities and advocate for the accommodations they need to succeed. Visit Job Seeking Success Tips for People with Disabilities - Disability Belongs™ to download the resource.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                
• SeaChange CoLab is offering a variety of on-demand courses on their website. These 2-hour, self-paced trainings will help you build skills in accessibility and equity with practical tools you can use in the workplace and in your community. Visit ACE Trainings Accessibility Confident Employers for more information and to register for courses.                                                                                                                                                                         
• ISANS Targeted Language Programs: The Immigrant Service Association of Nova Scotia (ISANS) if offering Targeted Language Programs to support vulnerable newcomer groups by providing customized instruction, accessible learning environments and engaging teaching methods. Visit Targeted Language Programs for more information.                                                                                                                                                                                               

• Accessibility News in Your Organization
  The Accessibility Directorate is interested in your news on accessibility progress and improvements in your organization. We may share your news in our Breaking Barriers newsletter, on our website or other communications. Please send your news to accessibility@novascotia.ca
   
• Personal Stories and Experiences
  Do you or someone in your organization in Nova Scotia have a short personal story you would like to share with us? The Accessibility Directorate is interested in hearing your personal stories and experiences related to accessibility. We may share your story on our website or in other communications. Please send your personal stories to accessibility@novascotia.ca