ACCESSIBILITY POLICY – METTA LIFESTYLESLES
Metta Lifestyles (“Metta”, “we”, “us”, “our”) is committed to creating welcoming, inclusive environments where residents, families, visitors, and team members of all abilities can access our services with dignity and independence.
We strive to meet the accessibility requirements of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation (IASR).
This policy explains how we deliver accessible customer service and how we accommodate individuals with disabilities.
1. Our Commitment
We believe everyone deserves respectful, barrier-free service.
We are committed to:
• Identifying and removing barriers
• Meeting accessibility needs promptly
• Providing information in accessible formats upon request
• Training our team members
• Continuously improving accessibility across our residences and Website
2. Providing Services in an Accessible Manner
We make every reasonable effort to ensure that our services are provided in a way that:
• Respects the dignity and independence of all individuals
• Accommodates accessibility needs
• Allows people with disabilities to fully participate in our communities
3. Communication
We communicate with individuals with disabilities in a way that takes into account their needs.
This may include:
• Simplified explanations
• Writing information down
• Reading information aloud
• Offering alternative formats
• Using assistive communication devices
4. Assistive Devices
Individuals are welcome to use their own assistive devices when accessing our services, including:
• Wheelchairs or walkers
• Hearing aids
• Communication boards
• Oxygen tanks
• Personal mobility devices
Where possible, we also provide supportive tools available on-site.
5. Support Persons
Visitors, residents, and family members who require a support person are welcome to bring that individual with them.
We will never prevent access or deny service to someone using a support person.
6. Service Animals
Service animals are welcome in areas of our residences that are open to the public, unless otherwise restricted by law.
7. Temporary Disruptions
If an accessibility-related facility or service is temporarily unavailable for example, elevators, automatic doors, or accessible washrooms then we will:
• Notify residents and visitors promptly
• Post visible notices
• Offer alternative options where available
8. Training
We provide accessibility training to all team members and volunteers who:
• Interact with residents, families, or visitors
• Develop policies or procedures
• Provide services or support within our residences
Training includes:
• AODA requirements
• How to communicate with people with different disabilities
• How to support individuals using assistive devices, service animals, or support persons
• How to identify and remove barriers
9. Feedback Process
We welcome feedback on how we can improve accessibility.
Feedback may be provided:
• In person
• By phone
• By email
• In writing
• Through an alternative format if required
All feedback will receive a response within a reasonable timeframe.
Please direct feedback to:
10. Availability of This Policy
This policy is available in alternative formats upon request, including:
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Email or PDF
Requests may be made through accessibility@mettalifestyles.com
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