According to Statistics Canada, almost one in four Manitobans over the age of 15 (or approximately 234,000 people) have a disability. While Manitobans with disabilities are already an important part of our provincial workforce, they also represent a skilled segment of unemployed individuals looking for work. Accessible employment levels the playing field, improves productivity, and makes workplaces healthier and safer for everyone – often, at little or no cost.
In 2019, the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba passed the Accessible Employment Standard Regulation. By May 1, 2022, all employers in Manitoba with one or more employee(s) will be required to comply with this regulation. Its purpose is to make accessibility a regular practice when recruiting, hiring and supporting employees who experience barriers in the workplace. The regulation builds on existing requirements of The Manitoba Human Rights Code and applies to paid employees who are:
- Full time
- Part time
- Apprentices, and
- Seasonal
To help your organization comply, the Government of Manitoba has developed practical tools and resources with sample memos and templates that can be adapted to suit your organization’s needs. Please visit AccessibilityMB.ca for more information, including access to free online training related to accessible employment and accessible customer service.
Here are just some of the helpful documents you can find in the online training:
- Discussing Accessibility in the Workplace (PDF)
- Workplace Emergency Response Information Toolkit (PDF)
- Guide to Create Individualized Accommodation Plan Process and Policy (PDF)
Manitoba Accessibility Fund Applications – Deadline to apply of April 15/2022
The Manitoba government is committed to working with businesses, municipalities and community organizations to ensure all Manitobans have the opportunity to access goods and services, employment opportunities and activities of daily living.
On February 14, Honourable Rochelle Squires, Minister of Families, announced $750,000 in Manitoba Accessibility Fund grants are available to Manitoba organizations looking to make enhancements to customer service, employment and information, or communications (not infrastructure or renovations) in 2022/23. MAF applications must fulfill at least one of the following objectives in support of The Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA):
- Raise awareness about preventing and removing barriers.
- Develop tools, resources and training to support compliance with AMA standards.
- Remove barriers to information and communications electronically, in print and in-person.
For information about completing the grant application, click here or register for a webinar to review the MAF Guidelines and Application Form, scheduled for Wednesday, March 9, 2022 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. CST