Accessibility Rights

When accessing a service, you have the right to any supports and accommodations you may need in order to:

  • Understand spoken and written information.
  • Have the person with whom you are communicating, understand your messages.
  • Get the time you need to communicate effectively.
  • Use the communication method(s) of your choice and/or have someone assist you with communication.
  • Connect with an organization using the telephone or alternatives to a telephone, such as email or text.
  • Effectively communicate at meetings, conferences, online events and public consultations.
  • Read and/or understand the organization’s written materials.
  • Access an organization’s website and social media.
  • Complete an organization’s forms, take notes and sign documents.

In critical situations, you have a right to expect an organization to:

  • Have specific communication access procedures, policies, safeguards and communication supports to ensure you have effective communication to give and receive information, and provide informed consent and / or make decisions in critical contexts such as healthcare and legal situations.
  • Procedures to appoint a trusted communication assistant to assist with communication and/ or a person to support you in difficult decision-making situations.
  • Find and hire a qualified Communication Intermediary to assist you communicating in police, legal and justice situations.