Three local businesses were recognised for the way in which they welcome and support people of all abilities at a special Awards ceremony at Park Beach Surf Club this week as part of International Day of People with Disability Day celebrations.
The 2017 Business Awards for Disability Inclusion and Access Awards are an initiative of Council’s Disability Inclusion and Access Advisory Committee.
This year, Club 300 Bowling and Bar was recognised by for its encouragement and support for people with a disability to participate in ten pin bowling by providing an accessible venue with a lift, ramps and accessible toilets. The venue also hosts a bowling event each Monday for people with a disability.
CHESS Disability Employment Services’ Personal Helpers and Mentors Programme and NDIS services also received an Award. In setting up their new building they have gone the extra mile to ensure accessibility with features such as an automatic front door, wheelchair accessible reception area, staff training in sign language and spaces for people that suffer anxiety and low mood.
TARGET Australia was also recognised for its inclusive catalogues that use models of all abilities including wheelchair users, people with limited mobility and children with cerebral palsy and Down syndrome.
Each year, the UN announces a theme for International Day of People with Disability and this year’s theme is ‘Transformation towards sustainable and resilient society for all’.
“The aim of this theme is to ‘leave no one behind’ and empower people with disability to be active members of, and contributors to, society,” said Chris Chapman, Council’s Director Sustainable Communities who spoke at the event.
Deputy Chair of Council’s Disability Inclusion and Access Committee Peter Dickson-Smith cutting the IDWPD cake.
