Local governments can access a provincial grant for a free workplace disability management assessment (WDMA), which helps organizations improve disability management services, reduce costs related to injury and sickness, enrich or fulfill accessibility plans, and meet accessibility legislation requirements.
This grant has received an extension, and local governments that did not apply during 2023-2024 can now apply for an assessment in 2025.
These assessments can assist local governments in meeting their requirements for accessibility plans under the Accessible BC Act legislation.
A workplace disability management assessment typically involves interviews with people who are involved in providing and receiving disability management services. The assessment considers 16 elements such as processes, communication, and data practices. Participants will receive a report that outlines strengths and weaknesses and gives recommendations to help the organization reach best practices. Following the assessment, local governments can also access up to $7,500 to implement the recommendations.
The WDMA is administered by the National Institute of Disability Management and Research (NIDMAR). NIDMAR is a non-profit organization committed to reducing the human, social, and economic costs of disability. Through collaborative initiatives with leaders in business, labour, government, education, insurance and rehabilitation, NIDMAR has been assisting Canadian and international workplaces to achieve best practices in disability management through the promotion of education, professionalization, and program standards.
Contact NIDMAR staff to learn more about this initiative.