Multi-Year Accessibility Plan (2025–2030)
1. Introduction
Hygate on Lexington is a retirement residence committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive living environment for all residents, staff, and visitors. As of 2025, our building meets or exceeds current AODA accessibility standards. This Multi-Year Accessibility Plan outlines our ongoing strategy to maintain compliance, improve accessibility, and remove potential barriers wherever possible.
2. Statement of Commitment
Hygate on Lexington is committed to providing a barrier-free environment for individuals with disabilities. We aim to identify, remove, and prevent barriers to ensure equal access and participation for everyone who lives, works, or visits our residence.
We are committed to meeting the requirements of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Human Rights Code, with a focus on dignity, independence, integration, and equal opportunity.
3. Past Achievements
We have taken the following steps to support accessibility:
- Fully accessible building with elevators, barrier-free entrances, and public washrooms.
- Staff trained on accessibility and service provision for various disabilities.
- High-contrast signage for visibility.
- Accessible emergency procedures and pendant system for emergency support.
4. Accessibility Goals (2025–2030)
- Customer Service
– Ongoing: Train new staff and volunteers on the AODA Customer Service Standard.
– 2026: Review resident feedback process to ensure accessibility.
– 2028: Conduct resident satisfaction surveys on accessibility.
- Information and Communications
– 2025: Ensure public materials are available in alternative formats upon request.
– 2027: Ensure the website meets WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards.
– 2029: Explore accessible technologies for resident use.
- Employment
– Ongoing: Provide accommodations and inform staff of available supports.
– 2026: Update internal accommodation policy.
– 2028: Conduct an audit of HR processes.
- Design of Public Spaces
– 2025–2030: Maintain and upgrade public spaces proactively.
– 2026: Evaluate outdoor areas for enhancements.
– 2030: Review lighting in common areas.
5. Training
Training is provided to all staff and volunteers on AODA and the Ontario Human Rights Code as it relates to people with disabilities. Refresher training occurs every two years or when policies change. Training completion is documented annually.
6. Feedback
Feedback on the accessibility of Hygate on Lexington is welcomed. Feedback may be submitted in person, by phone, in writing, or by email. Accessible formats and supports are available on request.
Contact for Accessibility Feedback:
Administrator
Hygate on Lexington
519-501-1131
info@hygateliving.com
7. Review and Update
This Multi-Year Accessibility Plan will be reviewed and updated every five years. Annual progress updates will be shared with stakeholders and made available in accessible formats upon request.