People with Physical Disabilities | NEADS Staff DEI Resources

The Wheelchair Experience – a NEADS DEI Initiative

This fall, the DEI team is focusing on the topic of ableism. Ableism is discrimination in favor of able-bodied people. As an organization that serves and interacts with people of different disabilities, we want to make sure we are being inclusive and kind with our language and behaviors, as well as a better understanding of…

The NEADS Wheelchair Experience

What is the wheelchair experience? The DEI team is currently focusing on the topic of ableism. Ableism is discrimination in favor of able-bodied people. As an organization that serves and interacts with people of different disabilities, we want to make sure we are being inclusive and kind with our language and behaviors. The DEI team…

Common Barriers to Participation Experienced by People with Disabilities

Nearly everyone faces hardships and difficulties at one time or another. But for people with disabilities, barriers can be more frequent and have greater impact. The World Health Organization (WHO) describes barriers as being more than just physical obstacles. Continue reading the article for details.

Tips for Working With Students in Wheelchairs

“Don’t assume that the student in the wheelchair requires assistance; always ask the student if they would like your help before giving it. It’s good to establish a method of how and when the student would like your assistance. Have this one-to-one conversation.” Continue reading the article for more helpful information.

How a wheelchair challenge mobilized a high school to become more accessible.

What is life really like for disabled people? The Disability Diaries reveal all

The Guardian asked seven people to keep diaries for a month to document the reality of being disabled in Britain today. Author Frances Ryan reflects on the issues that arose – public transport, employment, housing, attitudes – and meets four of the diarists. An interesting and insightful read!

Up Close with NEADS Client Naomi and Service Dog Charlie

NEADS staff recently had the opportunity to hear from and chat with client Naomi, who spoke about living with a disability. She, along with her husband and Service Dog Charlie, joined us at a brown bag lunch roundtable. In case you missed it or want to hear again, listen now:

Appropriate Terms to Use about Disabilities

While there are varying preferences regarding disability terminology, there are some terms which should never be used as they are not respectful of disabled people. The below is not an exhaustive list, but is meant to provide some practical guidance and explanation for terms no longer in use and the recommended alternative.

Should You Bend Over To Talk To Someone In A Wheelchair?

Have you ever wondered how to best have a conversation with someone using a wheelchair? How can I be more inclusive in conversations?