International Day for Persons with Disabilities

The International Day for Person with Disabilities, observed annually on December 03, aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities and to increase awareness of the challenges they face.

The Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) is the Government Agency responsible for the rehabilitation, vocational training and placement of persons with disabilities in Jamaica.

Yearly, the Agency embarks on events and activities aimed at promoting the equality of opportunities between the disabled and the able-bodied.

This is in keeping with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

The JCPD also encourages inclusion and accommodation for the disabled in the society. The following guidelines can help when dealing with persons with disabilities:

1. Avoid potentially offensive terms.
2. Be aware of their personal space.
3. Provide reading materials in alternative formats (auditory, braille, electronic, large print, etc.).
4. Make buildings wheelchair accessible.
5. Assist in practical ways, where possible and permitted.
6. Increase awareness and understanding of disability.
7. Encourage participation in activities, where possible.
8. Budget for reasonable, beneficial future upgrades.
For more information, please contact the:
Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities

18 Ripon Rd
Kingston 5
Telephone: (876) 968-8379/ (876) 926-9374
Fax: (876) 906-5888/ (876) 922-5585