The Universal Design Network of Newfoundland and Labrador is “sparking the conversation” about designing and building homes, workspaces and outdoor spaces that are accessible to all.

Syd Wilansky is the Chair of the Spark the Conversation Committee, which has launched a contest for school-aged children to draw how accessibility makes them feel. WiIansky says it’s all about raising awareness.

They want students to think about the environment around them and how it works for people who face barriers because of mobility, sight, or disabilities that might not be visible.

Disability advocate, Craig Reid, joined Wilansky on VOCM’s On Target – St. John’s. He says Universal Design addresses all possible needs and is no cost compared to having to retrofit previously built structures.