The OTF has partnered with Ontario JOIN to support the development of the JOIN Platinum Standards for Accessibility and Inclusion.

Taru Virkamaki has been hired as the project manager and will oversee the project which will examine global best practices, AODA standards and existing resources on accessibility and inclusion to develop the JOIN Platinum Best Practices Standards.

Through community and stakeholder consultation that will include focus groups and on-line surveys, Ontario JOIN will develop the tools to assist employers in Ontario to create accessible workplaces in the employment of persons with disabilities, communication strategies to support inclusion for all, and access to organizational products and services across the province.

The research phase of this project examined global best practices in accessibility and inclusion. The final report will provide the global context from which the first draft of the JOIN Platinum Standards will be developed.

The community consultation phase has begun and includes a broad spectrum of JOIN’s partners. A Steering Committee with representation from the Business Leadership Network (BLN), Service Providers, and government representatives has been formed and will provide leadership and guidance throughout the project.

To enhance community consultation, focus groups will be held in three areas of the province; on-line surveys will be distributed to Ontario’s employers and will provide in-depth commentary and practical advice. The focus groups will consist of Ontario JOIN BLN members, a broader spectrum of employers across the province, persons with disabilities both seeking employment and employed, and Ontario JOIN member agencies and other stakeholder groups including government across the province. Recommendations from the community consultation will be incorporated into the JOIN Platinum Best Practices Standards.

For further information please contact Richard via email at richard@joininfo.ca or via telephone at the JOIN offices – 416-241-5646.