5.7 Socially Acceptable Behaviour
The Basics:
Ask the person before you help.Adults with disabilities want to be treated as independent people. When a person with a disability wants help, ask “How can I help?” before you act.
Don’t make assumptions.
People with disabilities are the best judges of what they can or cannot do.
Speak to the person.
Always speak directly to the person with a disability; not to the companion, aide or sign language interpreter.
Be sensitive about physical contact.
Avoid touching a person’s wheelchair or mobility device. People with disabilities consider their equipment part of their personal space.
Respond to requests.
When someone asks for an accommodation in the workplace, it is not a complaint. It shows that the person feels appreciated and has confidence in your understanding.
Sources
1 Disability Etiquette: Tips on Interacting with People with Disabilities. United Spinal Association. Retrieved from the Syracuse University Disability Cultural Center website Disability Etiquette Brochure (unitedspinal.org)
Disclaimer:
Hire for Talent has made every effort to use the most respectful words possible while writing these materials. We realize, however, that the most appropriate terminology may change over time. We developed these materials with the intent to respect the dignity and inherent rights of all individual.
Hire for Talent has made every effort to use the most respectful words possible while writing these materials. We realize, however, that the most appropriate terminology may change over time. We developed these materials with the intent to respect the dignity and inherent rights of all individual.
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