2015
Seniors, Wellness and Social Development
Karen Davis, Mary Reid, Linda Roberts, Catherine Shortall, Philip Strong, Susan Tobin
The Disability Policy Office (DPO) is the focal point and a centre of excellence across government and the public service for accessibility and inclusion advancement. This small but highly respected team is innovative, dedicated and creative as members work with groups across government and stakeholders around the province.
Team members are highly respected in the disability community, throughout government and the business community for their commitment to equity. The team fosters relationships and partners with community groups to deliver innovative approaches to inclusion.
The implementation of the Provincial Strategy for the Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities and the ongoing policy framework would not have been possible without the leadership, drive and knowledge of the Disability Policy Office team.
In addition, a three-year Inclusion Action Plan was launched in 2015 which advances inclusion through 43 practical initiatives across 16 government departments. The plan ensures that legislation, policies, programs and services are accessible and inclusive of persons with disabilities.
The team brings a disability policy lens to the government policy making process. In addition, specific projects in areas including Inclusive Emergency Preparedness and Supporting Electoral Participation have demonstrated the leadership of the team.
The DPO team has worked hard internally and with external stakeholders who are vital to their success. Through the efforts of the team, there has been a real shift in the views and approach to disability and inclusion in the province. There is no doubt that this team has led the shift, through their exceptional work every day to ensure people with disabilities are truly included in every way in communities across the province.