St. Bernadette’s F.R.C. is committed to communicating with clients with disabilities in different or alternative ways that take into consideration their disability. Staff will be trained on how to interact and communicate with clients with disabilities in a manner that is respectful of a client’s dignity and independence. Alternative methods of communication will be provided as requested. Staff will be trained to communicate with clients over the telephone in clear and plain language and to speak clearly and slowly.

Assistive Devices, guide animals and/or support persons may be used by clients to assist in accessing services at St. Bernadette’s F.R.C. Bernadette’s F.R.C. may require a person with a disability to be accompanied by a Support Person where it is necessary to protect the health or safety of the person with a disability or the health or safety of others on the premises. All service animals must have proof of inoculations/vaccinations required under the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014. Staff and volunteers will be properly trained in how to interact with clients with disabilities who are accompanied by a service animal a support person or an assistive device. The use of such items must be in compliance with the regulations outlined in the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014 and the Toronto Operating Criteria or other regional requirements.

St. Bernadette’s F.R.C. will notify clients if there is a planned or unexpected disruption of a facility or service persons with a disability use to access our services. The notice will be posted at the entrance of the applicable premises and as well as being provided verbally, electronically or in person as applicable. The notice will include the following information: That a facility or service is unavailable. The anticipated duration of the disruption. The reason for the disruption. Alternative facilities or services, if available.

AODA requires Organizations to implement a feedback method that allows clients to provide feedback on perceived barriers, including how to ask for assistance. Bernadette’s F.R.C. accepts feedback in a variety of ways including in person, by telephone, in writing or electronically. Our feedback protocol requires St. Bernadette’s F.R.C. to respond to all client inquiries within 10 business days.

St. Bernadette’s F.R.C. will provide training and ongoing training as required under the Act, to all persons to whom this Policy applies as well as to those persons charged with developing this Policy and related procedures and practices. Content of Training Training will include: A review of the purpose of the Act and requirements of the Standard. A review of the Policy. How to interact and communicate with persons with various types of disabilities. How to interact with persons with a disability who use an Assistive Device or require the assistance of a Service Animal or Support Person. How to use equipment or devices made available on our premises to assist persons with a disability to obtain, use or benefit from our goods and services. What to do if a person with a disability is having difficulty accessing our premises and/or services. Timing of Training Training will be provided to all persons to whom this Policy applies as soon as practicable after he or she is assigned the applicable duties. Documenting Training Records of the training provided, including the dates on which the training is provided shall be maintained in accordance the requirements of the Act.