Advancing Accessibility Through Strategy, Systems Change, and Inclusive Design

AccessAdvance provides strategic guidance on embedding accessibility into organisational policies, systems, spaces, services, and learning environments. We support businesses, non-profits, healthcare organisations, and educational institutions from K-12 through postsecondary in understanding how their environments and practices shape experiences and access to opportunities for persons with disabilities, and to identify practical improvements.

Our approach helps organisations make informed decisions and align their work with accessibility standards and human rights expectations, not as a checklist but as a way to design fair, welcoming, and high-quality environments. When accessibility is built in from the start, organisations benefit from stronger engagement, a wider range of perspectives, and practices that work better for everyone.

Our services include system-wide reviews, policy and programme evaluations, applied research, training, presentations, and accessibility audits. We help organisations embed accessibility into daily operations and long-term planning so they can offer spaces, services, and experiences that are inclusive, effective, and trusted.

OUR SERVICES

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    Access Design

    Access design services include comprehensive accessibility reviews of the built environment and ratings to measure the level of meaningful access of buildings and sites.

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    Policy & Service Evaluations

    Evaluations that strenghten policies, procedures, services, and processes.

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    Research

    Collaboration and Co-investigation on disability-related research.

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    Training & Guest Speaker

    Workshops, training and speaking engagements on accessibility, anti-ableism, disability, and accessibility supports (accommodations) and inclusive service delivery across schools, workplaces, healthcare, social services, and community settings.

  • “As of 2023, 27% of Canadians aged 15 and older live with one or more disabilities, representing 8 million people” (Statistics Canada, 2023). Globally, the World Health Organization notes that disability rates are rising, driven by population growth, medical advancements, and an aging society. This growing demographic cannot be overlooked.

    Legislation like the Accessible Canada Act and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) exist to ensure businesses, schools, and organizations create accessible spaces and services. However, accessibility is not just about compliance, it is about shaping inclusive and welcoming experiences that foster a true sense of belonging for everyone.

    • Aging Population: As more people choose to age in place, the need for accessible homes, buildings, and community spaces continues to grow. Proactively assessing accessibility ensures that your environments support mobility, safety, independence, and dignity over time.

    • Impact on Education: The number of students with disabilities registered through Ontario Offices for Students with Disabilities (OSDs) in colleges and universities “increased by nearly 80% between 2013-14 and 2020-21” (HECQO, 2023), a rise seen nationally and internationally. This rise highlights the importance of accessible learning, living, and service environments across the educational sectors.

    • Workplace Inclusivity: Accessible environments help organisations attract and retain talented workers with disabilities, expanding the available workforce and strengthening team diversity.

    • Enhanced User Experience: Accessible design improves the experience for everyone, including clients, employees, families, and community members, by reducing friction points and creating spaces that are easier to navigate and use.

    • Cost-Effective Solutions: Accessibility does not need to be expensive. Many solutions integrate seamlessly with modern design, often enhancing aesthetics while improving overall usability.

    • Proactive Budgeting: Planning early for accessibility prevents costly retrofits, last-minute accessibility support (accommodation) requests, and operational disruptions. A proactive approach supports long-term financial planning.

    • Compliance and Standards: Regular audits ensure alignment with accessibility codes, human rights obligations, and evolving industry standards. Keeping up with these requirements reduces risk and ensures your organisation continues to provide accessible, reliable services.

    • Reputation and Recognition: A demonstrated commitment to accessibility strengthens your reputation as an inclusive, trusted, and forward-thinking organisation. It signals that you value diverse perspectives and design services that work for everyone.

    • Expertise in Accessibility and Supports (Accommodation) Legislation: We stay current with the latest regulations, human rights guidelines, and best practices to provide you with updated advice, guidance, and recommendations aligned with current standards and legislation.

    • User-Centric Approach: Our services are designed around the experiences of those with disabilities, ensuring real-world impact. Our own lived experience with disabilities also provides us with unique insights into the challenges and solutions that genuinely make a difference.

    • Customized Approach: Drawing on our extensive experience, we recognize the unique needs and opportunities present in diverse sectors. Our flexible approach allows us to provide effective, customized solutions that promote inclusivity and accessibility in your educational institution, business, or research environment.

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