An accessible municipality makes sure every resident can take part. Under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the municipality of Heerlen has a duty to arrange this properly.
Why is accessibility important?
Buildings, websites, communication and services must be usable by everyone. The municipality is not only a service provider but also an example for others. Accessibility is therefore part of everything you do: policy, implementation, permits and events.
As a staff member you play an important role. Clear information, easily reachable buildings and simple processes do not only help people with a disability. They make things more pleasant for everyone.
What might you come across?
Examples of situations where things can go wrong:
- A door at the city office that is too heavy for someone in a wheelchair.
- An online form that does not work with speech software.
- A letter written in language that is too difficult.
- A meeting that takes no account of someone who is hard of hearing.
- A route through the city that is difficult to use.
What can you do?
Always ask yourself: can everyone use, read or understand this?
- Make sure websites, documents and emails are readable for everyone: clear language, sufficient contrast and logical headings.
- Fix obstacles where you can and discuss problem spots with colleagues.
- Use tools such as the plain-language guide.
- Ask the inclusion policy team or Samen Toegankelijk Heerlen for advice.
- Also report problems in your own neighbourhood to the municipality.
Together we are making Heerlen more accessible, step by step.
Do you have an experience, question, idea or suggestion? Report an issue. We are happy to think along with you.
