Accessibility Policies

Statement of Commitment:

Apple Saddlery is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all customers, including those with disabilities. We strive to ensure that everyone can access our products and services with dignity, independence, and equal opportunity.

Customer Service:

1. Communication:
   • We will communicate with customers in ways that take into account their individual communication needs.
2. Assistance:
   • Our staff is available to assist customers with disabilities in navigating the store and accessing products. Please feel free to ask for assistance.
3. Service Animals:
   • Service animals are welcome in our store. We recognize the importance of service animals to individuals with disabilities and will accommodate accordingly.
   Physical Accessibility:
4. Store Layout:
   • We are committed to maintaining an accessible store layout that allows for easy navigation and ensures that all areas are reachable for customers with disabilities.
5. Entrances and Exits:
   • Entrances and exits are designed to be accessible, with clear signage and sufficient space for mobility aids.
   Information Accessibility:
6. Product Information:
   • We will provide accessible product information, including details about features, pricing, and usage.
7. Braille and Large Print:
   • Where feasible, essential information will be available in Braille or large print formats upon request.
   Online Accessibility (if applicable):
8. Website Accessibility:
   • We are committed to ensuring that our website is accessible to all users. This includes providing alternative text for images and ensuring compatibility with screen readers.
   Training and Awareness:
9. Employee Training:
   • All employees will receive training on providing accessible customer service and understanding the importance of accessibility in our retail environment.
10. Continuous Improvement:
    • We are dedicated to continuous improvement in our accessibility initiatives. Feedback from customers and employees is welcomed and will be used to enhance our practices.
    Contact Information:

Multi-Year Accessibility Plan for Apple Saddlery

Introduction:
Apple Saddlery is dedicated to creating an inclusive and accessible environment for all employees and customers, including those with disabilities. This multi-year accessibility plan outlines our commitment to removing barriers and meeting the accessibility requirements set forth by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).

Consultation:
To ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach, we will actively consult with individuals with disabilities throughout the development and implementation of our accessibility plan. Their insights will be invaluable in identifying and addressing specific barriers affecting them.

Resource Allocation:
We will estimate and allocate the necessary human, financial, and technical resources to support the implementation of our accessibility plan. This includes ongoing training, technology upgrades, and physical adjustments to our retail space.

Responsibility Assignment:
We will designate a specific department or employee to lead each commitment outlined in our accessibility plan. This ensures accountability and clear lines of responsibility for the successful execution of accessibility initiatives.

Timeline Development:
A detailed work schedule will be established, aligning with both compliance deadlines for Ontario's accessibility laws and our organization's priorities. This timeline will be flexible, allowing for adjustments based on evolving needs and feedback.

Public Accessibility Plan:
Our public accessibility plan will be transparent, using plain language in short sentences to enhance readability and understanding. Jargon and acronyms will be avoided, and the active voice will be utilized to convey information clearly.

Accessibility Barriers and Solutions:
Our plan will address identified accessibility barriers, including but not limited to:

Physical barriers in the store layout
Lack of accessible product information
Insufficient online accessibility (if applicable)
Solutions will be proposed, considering input from individuals with disabilities, and will be prioritized based on their impact and feasibility.

Public Review and Feedback:
Prior to finalizing our accessibility plan, we will invite people with disabilities, those experienced in working with individuals with disabilities, and others who participated in the consultation process to provide feedback. This ensures that our plan is informed by diverse perspectives and experiences.

Continuous Improvement:
Apple Saddlery is committed to continuous improvement. We will regularly review and update our accessibility plan to reflect changes in technology, best practices, and feedback received from the community.

For any accessibility-related inquiries or feedback, please contact:
Scott Keirstead, General Manager
Email: scott@applesaddlery.com
Phone: 613-744-4040