Aidan Ponton

The economic impact of COVID-19 is far reaching and will not be fully calculated for a number of years. Thousands of people have experienced job loss in Canada; however, individuals living with a physical or neurological disability have been disproportionally affected because of the pandemic. According to Statistics Canada, 36% of people living with a disability reported experiencing a temporary or permanent job loss or reduced hours since March 2020.[1] Comparatively, the national unemployment rate in March 2021 is 7.5%[2]. One of the biggest factors leading to the discrepancy in employment rates between disabled and non-disabled people is due to the stigma surrounding individuals living with cognitive and physical disabilities. The show “Employable Me,” which has recently been renewed for its fourth season, is a documentary series that focuses on job seekers living with a cognitive or physical disability and the challenges they face searching for employment.

Each episode tells the story of two individuals and their journey through finding employment. Season 4 focuses on 12 new people and highlights their strengths in their desired fields and showcases their unique approach to tackling challenges The trailer for the current season, which premiered on June 9, can be viewed here, and season 4 can be watched in its entirety here.

As seen from our previous blog, potential employees with disabilities represent an untapped market. People living with a disability may not fit with the traditional employee model; however, the drive to excel is always there. Further, studies have shown people living with a disability are more likely to stay at the same company as compared to their counterparts without a disability. For an employer, there is no downside to hiring someone who is willing to work hard and isn’t as likely to leave after being trained. With all these factors, now is the time for employers to consider alternative hiring practices which are open to all potential employees.

Pacific Medical Law is committed to inclusivity. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury that you believe may be due to medical negligence, contact Pacific Medical Law. We have extensive experience in these types of cases and are committed to helping those who have suffered serious injuries maximize their recovery and reach their full potential.

[1] https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/200827/dq200827c-eng.htm

[2] https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/210409/dq210409a-eng.htm

With the summer months upon us and easing of COVID-19 restrictions, people are starting to travel again within British Columbia and take part in outdoor activities. For an individual with a disability, outdoor activities can present challenges an able-bodied person might not face. The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA) in conjunction with Spinal Cord Injury BC are trying to bridge that gap and promote inclusive community and tourism experiences in the Thompson Okanagan Region. They are doing this by working with local companies who specialise in adaptive activities and adventures and by providing support and awareness so the barriers to travel are reduced or removed completely.

One of TOTA’s accessibility partners is Access Revolution who are based out of Vernon and specialise in paddle boarding and day hiking for people living with a disability. They have the expertise to create an outdoor event for groups of all sizes and abilities, or they can organize day hikes and paddles that can be catered to specific needs. With over 50 lakes in the Okanagan Region everyone should be able to enjoy an adventure on the water or a day by the lake in the summer heat.

Another company in the Okanagan Region promoting inclusivity is Kootenay Adaptive Sport Association. They are focused on adaptive mountain biking and have half, full or multi-day rentals. With numerous trails in the surrounding region, it is the perfect way for mountain bike enthusiasts to get out on the trails. As can be seen in our previous blog Trails for all – BC is a leader in adaptive mountain biking, adaptive mountain biking is becoming increasingly popular and is the perfect way to let everyone get out into the sunshine and explore part of what BC has to offer.

Finally, Community Recreational Initiatives Society (CRIS) is a company based out of Kelowna that is promoting inclusive tourism by offering adaptable hiking, paddling, or cycling adventures in the summer, as well as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. They offer single or multi-day fully guided adventures. With their expertise, having an excursion in the mountains or on the trail has never been so inclusive and easy.

The goal of TOTA and their partnering companies is to reduce the barriers of tourism, both physical and financial. Everyone should have the ability to enjoy the beauty BC has to offer and with the help of the community and the companies described above, we can reduce barriers to travel and improve inclusivity for all.  At Pacific Medical Law, we believe inclusivity is a right and everyone should have the ability to take some time and recharge their mind and body. We are committed to helping those who have suffered life-altering injuries access their ability to travel and take part in outdoor activities.  If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury or other injury that may have been caused or worsened by medical negligence, please contact us to discuss your concerns. We will provide you with our opinion on your legal rights and options, for no charge.