Making The Salvation Army Accessible to All

Across Canada, about 27 percent of people aged 15 and older live with a disability. In a country of 41 million, that translates to about 11 million people—including many people in our Salvation Army context. So, how is our territory working to improve accessibility, to ensure everyone belongs? On this episode, we’re joined by Colonel Margaret McLeod, chief secretary, and Major Christine Johnston, territorial disabilities consultant, who share their perspectives on how the territory is progressing in this area, and why accessibility is not an add-on, but is an essential part of the gospel and our mission. Resources and Further Reading: Everybody Belongs, Serving Together – Inclusive church ministry with people with disabilities - a collaborative guide by Disability Concerns, Christian Horizons and Elim. Available is booklet form and on line at Introduction | Everybody Belongs, Serving Together | Faithward.org From Longing to Belonging – A Practical (Steven Shakespeare, 2006) Guide to Including People with Disabilities and Mental Health Conditions in Your Faith Community – book authored by Shelly Christensen, MA FAAIDD  Our Doors Are Open – Guide for Accessible Congregations  - an EnAbling Change Project with the Government of Ontario Our Doors Are Open – Nos portes sont ouvertes – Welcoming People with Disabilities in Places of Worship Including People with Disabilities in Faith Communities – A Guide for Service Providers, Families and Congregations- book authored by Erik W. Carter The 5 Stages: Changing Attitudes About Disability by Daniel Kyle Vander Plaats  Stages of Attitudes - Wheaton College, IL Karis Disability Services Equipping Churches Disability and Accessibility - The Salvation Army Ethics CentreAccessibility Statement and Plan - The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda TerritoryDisability, Accessibility and Belonging - Community Mission, Canada and Bermuda Territory