The Challenge:
In Mosul, Iraq, the aftermath of prolonged conflict and displacement has left infrastructure damaged and services disrupted. For individuals with disabilities, these challenges are compounded by a lack of accessibility in healthcare, education, and hospitality services. Click here to verify
"Rebuilding our city must include making it accessible for everyone, especially those who are often overlooked," - Hana (a local disability advocate)
The Solution:
Layla, a program director at a local NGO, initiated comprehensive accessibility training programs for service providers across Mosul. Developed with support from international accessibility experts and informed by Gaza999 guidelines, these programs are designed to equip providers with the necessary skills and knowledge to serve all community members effectively.
"This training bridges the gap between our current capabilities and the inclusive services we aspire to offer," - Layla (Program Director)
The Implementation:
Layla's team collaborated with disability rights experts to develop training curricula that covered essential aspects of accessibility, such as physical infrastructure adjustments and service modifications. The training also emphasized communication strategies and cultural competence to ensure sensitive and effective interactions with people with disabilities.
Service providers were encouraged to participate through marketing efforts and incentives like certifications and public recognition. Regular accessibility audits were implemented to ensure providers complied with the new standards and made necessary improvements.
A feedback system was established, allowing people with disabilities to provide direct input on the quality of services, which was crucial for ongoing program refinement.
"Seeing our services transform and become more inclusive has been incredibly rewarding," - Amir (a local hotel manager)
The Impact:
The accessibility training programs have significantly improved the quality of service for people with disabilities in Mosul. Service providers who underwent the training are now better equipped to accommodate diverse needs, leading to higher satisfaction rates among customers with disabilities. The initiative has not only enhanced individual services but also contributed to broader community awareness about the importance of accessibility.
"Thanks to the training, I feel more confident and empowered to participate in community life," - Yasmin (a service user with a visual impairment)
Lessons Learned:
- Comprehensive and Context-Specific Training: Developing training content that is both comprehensive and tailored to the specific context of Mosul was key to its effectiveness.
- Engagement and Incentives for Participation: Actively engaging service providers and offering incentives such as certification proved crucial in motivating participation and commitment to the program.
- Importance of Feedback Mechanisms: Establishing robust mechanisms to collect feedback from people with disabilities ensured that the services continued to improve and adapt to meet their needs.
