Released on May 17, 2017
The Government of Saskatchewan is recognizing innovative work by Estevan Diversified Services (EDS) and their commitment to support citizens in the community through the launch of their clear language human rights book.EDS has developed a new book called “Your Life, Your Rights” that explains the human rights that all people have. It is written in clear language so that it is understandable for people of all ages and abilities. The artwork in the book was created by art students from Estevan Comprehensive School.
“During the Disability Strategy consultations, EDS realized the people they serve, as well as their staff, didn’t fully understand their human rights so they took it upon themselves to address those gaps,” Social Services Minister Tina Beaudry-Mellor said. “I was pleased to learn that one of the tools used to write their important book was the Disability Strategy. This is a prime example of a community taking the initiative to improve the supports and services available to people experiencing disabilities.”
EDS also developed a handbook to accompany “Your Life, Your Rights” that helps people learn their rights. EDS wants the book and handbook to have a provincial impact, and they will be providing “Your Life, Your Rights” throughout the disability sector in Saskatchewan. EDS also presented a copy of “Your Life, Your Rights” to the Legislative Library of Saskatchewan today, to be included in the library’s collection.
“If you do not know or understand your rights, there is a limit in the say you have in your own life,” EDS Executive Director Carol Cundall said. “We knew there was a need to empower people to have both choice and control in their own lives, and “Your Life, Your Rights,” will help us achieve that as an agency.”
“I know that EDS is one of the many groups across the province who are working hard to improve the lives of people experiencing disabilities and who are using the Disability Strategy to guide that work,” Beaudry-Mellor said. “I encourage all community-based organizations, advocacy groups and Saskatchewan citizens to share their accomplishments with us as they relate to the Disability Strategy.”
Saskatchewan residents and communities that have done work that aligns with the Disability Strategy are encouraged to share their accomplishments using the hashtag #SKDisability. The Saskatchewan Disability Strategy Facebook page can be found at www.facebook.com/skdisability.
The Saskatchewan Disability Strategy was released by the Citizen Consultation Team in June 2015. Government accepted the strategy and is focused on the foundational work of six priority areas including: transportation, respite, accessibility legislation, residential services, service co-ordination and navigation, and awareness/understanding of the rights of people experiencing disabilities.
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For more information, contact:
Leya Moore
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3610
Email: leya.moore@gov.sk.ca
Connie Wahlmeier
Estevan Diversified Services
Estevan
Phone: 306-634-5575
Email: edsresource@sasktel.net