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Issue 44 | April 2024 |
This newsletter is available in alternate formats on request. |
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Accessible Information and Communication Standard Online Training Now Available |
Enacted on May 1, 2022, the Accessible Information and Communication Standard focuses on removing and preventing barriers that exist digitally, in print or through interaction with technology or people. This standard is now in force for the Manitoba government. On May 1, 2024, it also comes into force for public sector organizations, large municipalities, libraries and educational institutions. Small municipalities, private sector and non-profit organizations will be required to comply by May 1, 2025. |
Free Online Training Available Anytime from Anywhere! |
Train your employees today on the requirements of the Accessible Information and Communication Standard. This module is presented in plain language and includes a summary of the requirements of the standard. You will also find examples on how to achieve compliance, tips for best practices and other useful resources. |
Training is also available on the Accessible Customer Service and Employment standards. |
All accessibility training modules are available for Manitoba businesses and organizations to download and integrate into their internal learning management systems. |
Visit AccessibilityMB.ca to learn more and take the training today! |
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Manitoba Accessibility Fund Grant Program 2024/25 Intake Period Now Closed |
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Thank you to the organizations that expressed an interest in the Manitoba Accessibility Fund (MAF) grant program. The intake period is now closed, and all applications are currently being reviewed by the selection committee. |
During this intake period: |
The MAF Selection Committee will be reviewing the eligible applications over the next few weeks. Each applicant will receive a formal notification about the decision of their application, either approval or non-approval for their proposed project by May 2024. |
Please visit AccessibilityMB.ca to learn more about MAF and to read status updates on the grant program. |
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The Accessible Information and Communication Standard Regulation Training Requirements |
The Accessible Information and Communication Standard Regulation is the third regulation under the Accessibility for Manitobans Act. It is designed to remove and prevent barriers that exist digitally, in print, or through interactions with technology or people. |
This standard comes into force for public sector organizations, large municipalities, libraries, and educational institutions on May 1, 2024. Small municipalities, private sector and non-profit organizations must comply by May 1, 2025. |
Who needs to take this training? |
All organizations in Manitoba are required to provide training on this standard to their employees, agents and volunteers who: communicate directly with the public or another Manitoba organization maintain or develop the organization’s web content purchase or procure information technology or communication tools develop or implement an organization’s measures, policies and practices on accessible communication
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If your organization is an educational institution, you also need to train your educators. |
What must be included in the training? |
Training content must include: how to identify, prevent and remove barriers to accessible information and communication how to provide accessible information and communication, including through a communication support or alternate formats a review of The Human Rights Code, the Accessibility for Manitobans Act and the Accessible Information and Communication Standard
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When must training happen? |
Organizations must ensure training is provided as soon as reasonably possible after the person is assigned the applicable duties. Ongoing training is also required whenever there are updates or changes in policies, measures and practices related to accessible information and communication. |
Remember: The Manitoba Accessibility Office now offers free online training on accessible information and communication through their learning portal. It is recommended to print certificates of completion for record keeping purposes. |
Want More information? |
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In the News: |
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A strike at a facility for people with disabilities is now officially over. Workers at Ten Ten Sinclair, a non-profit program which oversees 100 clients at seven facilities, voted 97 per cent to accept a new six-year deal. |
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Disability advocates are looking forward to the possibility of Winnipeg’s iconic intersection reopening to pedestrians. On March 1, Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham announced his plan to reopen Portage and Main to pedestrians by summer 2025. The Manitoba League of Persons with Disabilities (MLPD) and Barrier-Free Manitoba said the move will make the intersection more accessible and easier to navigate. |
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As a child, I was often ashamed of my disability. Fast forward 15 years, and I was performing in a theatre show with Listen to Dis' Community Arts Organization, Saskatchewan's only disability-led disability arts non-profit. |
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View Accessibility News at Anytime! |
Looking for past editions of Accessibility News? Read and view previous editions at AccessibilityMB.ca. |
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Manitoba Accessibility Office Staffing Updates |
Please join us in welcoming Osagie Obasuyi. He has joined the Manitoba Accessibility Office as the new Manitoba Accessibility Fund Clerk. |
Drew Weber is leaving his role as STEP Student with the Manitoba Accessibility Office. A big thank you to Drew for all your work during your time with the Manitoba Accessibility Office, and best wishes in your new position as a Web Publisher with the department of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness! |
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Awareness Event: |
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Manitoba Access Awareness Week will take place from May 26 to June 1, 2024. |
This weeklong awareness celebration promotes accessibility and inclusion. It also acknowledges the people who are working to prevent, identify and remove barriers to accessibility, while also raising awareness about accessibility issues within the province that affect people with disabilities and many others. |
Watch AccessibilityMB.ca for details about this year’s festivities. |
April Awareness Dates: |
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