Solutions from Ukraine: accessibility specialists provide free housing advice for veterans with disabilities
Photo: depositphotos
People with disabilities, including military personnel, are eligible for complimentary consultations for housing arrangements through the project "We Unite and Help During War." This initiative is spearheaded by the public organization "Active Rehabilitation Group" in collaboration with the "League of the Strong" public union.
The host, Volodymyr Noskov, discussed the details in the new edition of the podcast "Side by Side" on Radio "Nakipilo."
What is the problem?
Currently, the Ministry of Social Policy and rehabilitators are seeking funding to address the needs of individuals with disabilities within their apartments.
What is the solution?
According to Vitaliy Pcholkin, the "Active Rehabilitation Group" board leader, the organization is collaborating with the Ministry to create a social service standard known as "housing services."
How does it work?
"We have a form on our website that you can fill out; a consultant will contact you and start working through the various stages.
That is, we start with such an audit according to a certain algorithm that is provided, and then we provide recommendations on what needs to be improved," Pcholkin said.
Experts knowledgeable about barrier-free environments research obstacles that may impede movement within a room and provide recommendations on how to optimally modify space, for instance, such as a bathtub or toilet, to enable entry with crutches or wheelchair access.
They discuss their personal experiences with furniture suitable for individuals with reduced mobility and tips for arranging it in the kitchen or living room to ensure maximum comfort for all.
For reference:
It's worth mentioning that a graduate of the "Driving School for Persons with Disabilities" obtained a driver's license at the Ministry of Internal Affairs service center in Kyiv.
It's important to note that 74% of Ukrainians believe that the lack of inclusive spaces and adapted workplaces will pose a significant challenge for disabled veterans when they transition back to civilian life. Additionally, 68% of respondents are confident that unemployment will also be an essential issue for veterans in general.
Solutions from Ukraine: new initiative offers free online English language courses for veterans
Solutions from Ukraine: "Diia" app now features veteran's certificate
Ensuring safety for everyone: How activists are making Kyiv's bomb shelters accessible
