The City of Canning held a corporate volunteer day as part of its national disability awareness week initiative on December 1 at good samaritan industries in Canning Vale.
Now in its sixth year disability awareness week promoted access to all community events for people with a disability, advocated for the rights of people living with a disability and supported their artistic, cultural and sporting aspirations.
City staff worked alongside people with disabilities in the walk in my shoes program.
Canning chief executive Lyn Russell said the day was about understanding.
“By working alongside people living with a disability for a day it is hoped staff will gain an insight to be able to provide better services for that important and valued part of our community,” she said.
Disability Services Minister Helen Morton said the week’s events highlighted the importance of access and inclusion for people with disability so they could not only experience employment, education and appropriate housing but also the arts, culture and sport.
“The week encourages the community to think more broadly and creatively about what can be done to support people with disabilities to enjoy everything the community has to offer,” she said.
The city started a program to provide people living with a disability better access to employment opportunities by working closer with employment agencies and service providers.
One in five people have a disability.
The week ran from November 29 to December 5.
