Towards disability inclusive COVID-19 policy

Youth with disabilities and their caregivers are disproportionately affected both by the COVID-19 pandemic and the policy measures that are adopted in response. Given the increased risk for this vulnerable population, intentionally planning and co-designing policy to meet the needs of youth with disabilities in emergency preparedness efforts is critical. Unfortunately, there is inadequate data collection and insufficient COVID-19 emergency planning and response for youth with disabilities. This knowledge gap means consideration of health and social policy implications specific to the needs and experiences of youth with disabilities and their families are lacking.
This project aims to facilitate a disability-inclusive pandemic response identifying ways governments can engage community partner organizations representing persons with disabilities while simultaneously developing community-based solutions to enhance their capacity to cope with outbreaks. The partners will benefit from the value addition of interns supporting their robust COVID-19 community engagement work. Partners and interns will work together to address issues, increase awareness and link the community and government around the remaining challenges facing persons with disabilities.

Faculty Supervisor:

Jennifer Zwicker;Meaghan Edwards

Student:

Ashish Seth;Jessica Kohek

Partner:

Cerebral Palsy Association in Alberta

Discipline:

Public administration

Sector:

Other services (except public administration)

University:

University of Calgary