WBU calls for accessible and inclusive services on Corona Virus

March 30, 2020 9:15 am Published by Legacy Account

The World Blind Union is calling on governments and national leaders to ensure that public information and health care communication messages regarding the Corona Virus Pandemic are accessible to all including the blind and partially sighted persons. Essential information should be made available in accessible formats such as braille, audio, large print, plain language and in easy to read format.

As the virus continues to spread worldwide, WBU wants essential services to be accessible and inclusive to all persons with disabilities including accessible hygiene health services, assistive devices, accessible digital technology and other support facilities.

The WBU is also urging government planners and key stakeholders to involve persons with disabilities in developing contingency plans to ensure their specific needs are considered and effective mitigation solutions are implemented.

In addition, WBU is urging employers to ensure income protection for all as the virus takes toll on global economy.

Meanwhile WBU is urging all members to follow WHO guidelines to stop the spread.

The World Blind Union is actively monitoring the spread and potential impact of the Coronavirus and will keep members updated. The health and safety of our members are top priority.
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The World Blind Union (WBU) is the global organization that represents the estimated 253 million people worldwide who are blind or partially sighted. Members consist of organizations of blind people advocating on their own behalf and organizations that serve the blind, in over 190 countries, as well as international organizations working in the field of vision impairment. Visit our website at www.worldblindunion.org

For further information, please contact:

Terry Mutuku
Communications and Strategic Development Officer
World Blind Union
Terry.Mutuku@wbu.ngo