Creating an inclusive workplace benefits everyone. At Mays Mission for the Handicapped, we often receive questions about how to best support individuals with disabilities on the job. The good news is that making your workplace more welcoming doesn’t have to be complicated—sometimes small actions make the biggest difference.
Here are a few simple but important guidelines to keep in mind:
- Don’t make assumptions. If you’re unsure what to say, what terminology to use, or whether assistance is needed, the best approach is to ask the individual directly.
- Remember that disabilities vary. A person with a disability may excel in many areas of life—never assume limitations across the board.
- Offer help respectfully. Always ask before jumping in. Even if someone appears to be struggling, they may prefer to complete the task independently.
- Remove barriers. Look around your workplace for potential obstacles that could impact mobility, vision, or hearing, and take steps to eliminate them.
- Use people-first language. Say “person with a disability” rather than “disabled person.” Language shapes perception, and focusing on the person first emphasizes dignity and respect.
- Highlight abilities. Shift the focus away from what someone cannot do and instead emphasize what they can do.
By applying these principles, you help foster an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.
If you’d like more guidance, Mays Mission offers free brochures—Making Your Community More Accessible and The Americans With Disabilities Act—produced by our employees with disabilities. To request copies, call us, message us, or email info@maysmission.org. Together, we can create more inclusive workplaces and stronger communities.
