GAAD is a global initiative that takes place on the third Thursday of May every year. More than a billion people worldwide have disabilities and should be able to experience web-based services, content, and other digital products the same as any other member of society.
Common disabilities and impairments that can affect digital access are visual, hearing, motor, and cognitive. This can mean that someone may need alternative text descriptions, captions, alternative keyboards, and more to allow them to have a high-quality web experience. By taking some simple steps to allow better digital accessibility and remove barriers, it can open new opportunities to those with a disability/impairment.
The PDA believes that someone with a disability should have access to the same experiences and opportunities as those without disabilities and this includes having a first-rate digital experience online. The PDA also believes that disabled pharmacists should have the same access to technology in the workplace as non-disabled pharmacists and they are entitled to any required adjustments.
Consideration of the possible disabilities that pharmacists and trainee pharmacists may have, and the adjustments that may need to be provided, should be built into recruitment processes, training, HR functionality e.g. booking holiday, internal communications, and every aspect of being at work. Pharmacists who feel that they require an adjustment in the workplace are encouraged to contact the PDA Service Centre.
This will not only support the well-being of disabled pharmacists, but it will also ensure there is a fairer and more equal workplace for all.
How to get involved in GAAD
There are several ways to participate in supporting digital access for those with disabilities. A few examples are:
- Captioning videos
- Providing alternative text to any images used
- Discussing any accessibility initiatives with colleagues
- Using plain language when posting on social media
- Become a member/ally of the PDA Ability Network
- Follow the PDA Ability Network on social media using the hashtag #PDAability
- See what others are doing on social media for GAAD by using the hashtag #GAAD.
Learn more
- Global Accessibility Awareness Day
- PDA Ability Network
- Read all the past Ability Network Newsletters
- Join the PDA Ability Network
Not yet a PDA member?
If you have not yet joined the PDA, we encourage you to join today and ask your colleagues to do the same.
Membership is FREE to pharmacy students, trainee pharmacists and for the first three months of being newly qualified.
Read about our key member benefits here.