Communication

We are committed to communicating with people with disabilities in ways that take into account their disability. Upon request, we will provide information about our organization and its services in accessible formats or with communication supports.

Assistive devices

DEW has trained its staff to ensure they are familiar with various assistive devices that could be made available as required to our employees, visitors or customers with disabilities while accessing our goods and/or services.

Service animals

We welcome people with disabilities and their service animals. Service animals are allowed on the parts of our premises that are open to the public.

Support persons

A person with a disability who is accompanied by a support person will be allowed to have that person accompany them on our premises. No fee will be charged to the support person for admission to DEW's premises.

Notice of temporary disruption

In the event of a planned or unexpected disruption to services or facilities for employees, visitors or customers with disabilities, DEW will notify affected individuals promptly. Clearly communicated notice will include information about the reason for the disruption, its anticipated length of time, and a description of alternative facilities or services, if available. Notices will be provided in a manner that is reasonable under the circumstances, with consideration given to the disability(s) of customers who access the disrupted service or facility.

Training

DEW provides training to employees, contractors and others who deal with the public or other third parties on our behalf.

This training is provided to staff at the commencement of their employment and includes:

• An overview of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and the requirements of the accessibility standard
• Our plan related to the accessibility standard
• How to interact and communicate with people with various types of disabilities
• How to interact with people with disabilities who use an assistive device or require the assistance of a service animal or a support person
• How to use typical equipment that might be provided to assist our customers or visitors with disabilities
• What to do if a person with a disability is having difficulty in accessing DEW's goods and services

Staff will also be trained when changes are made to our service plan.

Employment

We will notify employees, potential hires and the public that accommodations can be made during recruitment and hiring.

We will notify employees that supports are available for those with disabilities and that there is a process to develop individual accommodation plans.

Feedback process

Employees, visitors or customers who wish to provide feedback on the way we provides goods and services to people with disabilities can provide feedback via our customer contact page on our customer contact page, verbally or via email. All feedback, including complaints, will be reviewed by our Compliance department and a response provided within 10 business days.

Modifications to this or other policies

Any of our policies found to not respect and promote the dignity and independence of people with disabilities will be modified or removed.